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^  APR  22  1944  ^ 
'■^^-tOGICALSl 


BV  260  .W55  1844 

Wilson,  Thomas,  1663-1775. 

Sacra  privata 


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PRIVATE  MEDITATIONS,  DEVOTIONS,  AND  PRAYERS 


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RIGHT  REV.  T.  WILSON,  D.  D. 


liORD    BISHOP    OF   SODOR   AND   MAN 


THE  ONLY  COMPLETE  AMERICAN  EDITION. 


NEW-YORK : 

D.  APPLETON  &  CO.  200  BROADWAY. 

PHILADELPHIA  : 
GEO.  S.  APPLETON,  148  CHESNUT-STREET. 

MDCCCXLIV. 


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PREFACE 


No  words  are  necessary  to  introduce  the  name  of 
Bishop  Wilson  to  the  members  of  that  Church,  of 
which  he  was  in  his  day,  and  has  been  since,  in 
sacred  language,  "  a  burning  and  a  shining  light." 
Burning  indeed  and  shining,  like  the  Baptist,  in  an 
evil  time,  he  seemed  as  if  a  beacon  lighted  on  his 
small  island,  to  show  what  his  Lord  and  Saviour 
could  do  in  spite  of  man  ; — how  He  could  at  will 
make  for  Himself  a  dwelling-place  upon  the  waves, 
and  a  garden  in  the  barren  sea,  and,  when  a  nation 
had  fallen  into  his  enemies'  hands,  could  preach  to  it 
even  off  its  shores,  and  be  nigh  at  hand,  when  they 
would  fain  leave  Him  "  not  so  much  as  to  set  His 


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6  PREFACE. 

foot  on."  The  English  soil  indeed  had  its  own  wit- 
nesses and  teachers  at  the  time  ;  but  none  at  once  so 
exalted  in  station  and  so  saintly  in  character,  so 
active  and  so  tried  in  his  life-time,  and  so  influential 
in  his  works,  as  Bishop  Wilson. 

Of  these  works  not  the  least  important  is  that 
which  is  now  submitted  to  the  reader  entire ; — those 
Devotional  Exercises,  which  or  the  like  of  which 
were  the  groundwork  of  whatever  name  and  influence 
he  has  obtained  in  the  Church  of  God.  These  Ex- 
ercises, while  edifying  on  their  own  account,  are 
valuable  also,  as  affording  a  model  of  what  good 
judges  have  pronounced  to  be  the  best  form  in  which 
serious  persons  may  keep  a  record  of  their  own  spirit- 
ual state  ;  in  that  prayers  against  particular  failings, 
such  as  are  here  found,  at  once  suggest  to  the  framer 
what  his  failings  are  and  have  been,  and  yet  are 
secure,  as  being  prayers,  from  the  various  dangers  to 
which  the  direct  enlarging  upon  failings,  without  the 
immediate  thought  of  God's  presence,  is  likely  to 
lead. 

J.  H.  N. 

Okiel  Collegs, 
July  5,  1838. 

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&c. 


On  Devotion  and  Prayer 
Reflections  on  Private  Devotion 
The  Duties  of  a  Christian    . 
The  Duties  of  a  Bishop 

Prayer  

Duty,  Efficacy,  and  Importance  of  Prayer 

Prayers  through  Jesus  Christ 

Preparatory  Prayer  . 

Morning  Prayer     .... 

The  Lord's  Prayer  paraphrased 

Meditations  .... 

The  Bishop's  private  Prayer    . 

Prayer  for  Relations,  Benefactors, 

Prayer  for  Himself  and  Labours 

Prayer  for  Faith    .... 

Prayei  against  Wavering 

Prayer  against  CovetousnesB 

Prayer  for  Charity    . 

Player  for  Repentance  and  Humility 

The  way  of  a  Happy  Life 

Christian  Perfection 

Noon  Meditations 

Prayer  for  all  Mankind 

Special  Favours 

Extraordinary  Deliverances 

Merciful  Visitation  and  Chastiyemenls 

Thanksgiving 

The  Lord's  Prayer  paraphrased, 


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8  CONTENTS. 

Page 

Evening  Prayer  and  Meditations                  54 

Self-Examination .61 

Death,  Reflections  and  Meditations  on                .        •        •        •        •  63 

SUNDAY    MEDITATIONS. 

EPISCOPACY. 

Prayer  on  being  called  to  this  Ministration 65 

Marks  of  a  true  Pastor 66 

Bishops,  the  duty  and  greatness  of  their  OflSco       .....  68 

Translation  of  Bishops  and  Pastors ,        .  71 

Church  Government 75 

Mission  Intercession 77 

Prayer  for  a  Criminal  under  Sentence  of  Death      .....  78 

Briefs 79 

Lord's  Supper,  Prayers  before 79 

Upon  placing  the  Alms  and  Elements  on  the  Altar    .         ...  80 

After  the  Consecration ...  80 

Confirmation ...  81 

The  Effect  and  Blessing  of  Confirmation         ......  82 

Prayer  after  Confirmation ,        ,  85 

Exhortation  after  Imposition  of  Hands    ....•,.  85 

Another  Exhortation •        •        ,  87 

MONDAY. 

HOLY  SCRIPTURES,  &C. 

Prayer  for  true  understanding  and  fulfilling  the  Doctrine  contained  in 

the  Scriptures            89 

Preacher,  the  true  end  of  Preaching 90 

Obscurity  of  the  Scriptures 94 

Sermons 95 

Duty  of  Pastors 98 

Ejaculations  before  reading  the  Scriptures          .       ,       ,       ,       •  99 

TUESDAY. 

FALSE    DOCTRINE. 

Prayer  for  Diligence  and  Zeal  to  drive  away  all  erroneous  Doctrine 

contrary  to  God's  Word 102 

Disputes,  Religious 106 

The  Lord's  Prayer  paraphrased 107 

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CONTENTS.  y 
WEDNESDAY. 

SOBER    LIFE. 

Page 
Prayer  for  grace  to  resist  the  Inclinations  of  Nature,  and  to  be  an  ex- 
ample of  good  works  unto  otliers  115 

Meditations 116 

Failings  of  good  Men .  118 

Self-Denial 119 

Take  up  the  Cross .  123 

Afflictions 124 

Crosses,  Sec.  a  peculiar  favour  to  Christians        .....  124 

Virtues  of  a  Holy  Life .  126 

Temperance,  Self-Denial 127 

Fasting  necessary 130 

Lent,  Meditations  proper  for  a  Clergyman 131 

THURSDAY. 

CHURCH    DISCIPLINE. 

Prayer  for  grace  to  exercise  the  Discipline  of  the  Church  for  the  con- 
viction and  conversion  of  the  wicked        139 

The  Importance  and  necessity  of  Church  Discipline  ....  140 

Excommunication 141 

Absolution 158 

Penance 160 

Discipline ..•*.  160 

Its  sole  end  the  public  good •        •        .  162 

Exemption •.  163 

FRIDAY. 

ORDinATIOK. 


Prayer       .        .       .       . 
Meditations,  &c.  . 

Ember  Week    .        .        , 
Deacons         .         .        . 
The  True  Pastor      . 
Apostles,  (Envoys) 
The  Duties  of  a  Minister 
Fees       .... 
Ordination,  Catechising  . 
Institution 
Reasons  for  refusing 
A  Christian  Priest 


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169 
171 
172 
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180 
180 
181 
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10  CONTENTS. 

Page 

Clergy,  Faults  of  the  Clergy    ....                ....  183 

Lord's  Supper 184 

Lives  of  the  Clergy 184 

Difficulties 186 

Preacher,  Sermons    .....•;.        ^        .         .  186 

Necessary  Subjects i        .        .         .        .  187 

Test  of  a  good  Preacher 189 

The  Blessing  of  Levi :  189 

SATURDAY. 

ALMS. 

Meditations  on  the  great  Duties  of  Mercy  and  Charity           ,        .        .  191 

Upon  giving  of  Alms 198 

Tithes  the  Property  of  the  Ministers  of  the  Gospel,  how  to  be  appro- 
priated       - 198 

Alms,  a  Blessing  to  ours.elves  and  to  the  poor      .....  202 

Conversation 207 

Prayer  before  Study 209 

Suiferinga           .         .         .        .         • 210 

A  Thanksgiving  on  the  escape  of  the  Bishop's  Father  and  two  Brothers 

from  being  drowned 214 

SUNDAY  MEDITATIONS. 

Daily  Form  of  Thanksgiving,  and  Confession  of  God's  Glory        .        .  217 

Providence 220 

Prayer  for  Birth-Day 221 

New- Year's  Day 222 

Lord's  Day 223 

Prayer  for  all  Mankind          .                 .                         -        ...  223 

MONDAY. 

RESIGNATION. 

Prayer  and  Meditations  while  in  prison  and  in  trouble  .        .        .  227 

Business 230 

Master,  Servant                                 .        .  231 

TUESDAY. 

TROUBLE,    PERSECUTION,    ETC 

Prayer  in  time  of  Trouble 232 

Look  unto  Jesus 235 

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CONTENTS.  11 

Page 
Suffering,  Afflictions,  and  Chastisements,  Marks  of  God's  Love       .        237 

Temptation "^I 

Despair,  Hope,  Resignation,  &c. 241 

In  time  of  War         .,.,..«••••    242 


WEDNESDAY. 

C0VET0USNE88. 

Prayer  against  Covetousness  ..•••••  345 

Fasting 247 

Prayer  in  time  of  Trouble •        «        •        •  247 

Directions  under  Difficulties 249 

In  a  Lawsuit .♦••••  250 

Prayer  for  Faith 250 


THURSDAY. 

RELIGIOUS   DISCOURSE,   ETC 

Prayer,  Meditations,  &e 252 

Rules  in  Conversation      .....•••••  ^^ 

Prayer  against  Sloth 256 

Prayer  against  Anger .        •        •  ■^7 

Prayer  to  forgive  Injuries •'*^° 

Reflections  on  Slander      ...  259 

Reflections  on  Uncharitableness  .  260 

Reflections  on  Alms 260 

Charity;  or  the  Love  of  Gk)d  and  our  Neighbour        ....  262 

Hospitality 263 

FRIDAY. 

PENITENCE. 

The  Publican ;  Meditations  on  his  Penitence 264 

Prayer  for  forgiveness  from  God,  and  for  a  forgiving  Temper,  with 

Meditations *        •  265 

Good  use  of  Time 269 

In  time  of  great  Distractions 270 

Christ's  Patience,  Love,  &c 272 


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12  CONTENTS, 

SATURDAY. 

PaSPARATION    FOR    DEATH. 

Page 
What  will  be  the  desires  and  wishes  of  every  man  when  Death  is  at 

hand 274 

Prayers,  Meditations,  and  ejaculations  on  this  solemn  Occasion        .  292 

The  Litany 295 

The  Support  of  a  Penitent  at  the  Hour  of  Death  ....  298 
Ejaculations,  and  Meditations  on  the  Love  of  God  and  of  Christ  j  on 

Penitence,  Holiness,  Morning,  Night,  &c 298 

Collects,  their  tendency        .                308 


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01  DEYOTIOI  AlfD   PRATER. 


True  devotion  consists  in  having  our  hearts 
always  devoted  to  God,  as  the  sole  Fountain  of  all 
happiness;  and  who  is  ready  to  hear  and  help  His 
otherwise  helpless,  miserable  creatures. 

It  is  to  be  attained, 

1st.  By  earnest  prayer  :  "  He  that  hungers  after 
righteousness,  will  certainly  be  filled." 

2dly.  By  possessing  our  hearts  with  a  deep  sense 
of  our  own  misery,  our  wants,  and  danger  : — This  is 
the  grace  of  humility. 

3dly.  By  considering  God's  goodness,  power,  and 
readiness  to  help  us  : — This  is  called  faith  in  God. 

Lastly.  By  convincing  our  hearts  of  the  vanity 
of  every  thing  else  to  afford  us  any  real  help  or  com- 
fort : — This  is  to  be  effected  by  self-denial. 


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J  4  ON    DEVOTION    AND    rRAYER. 

Dying  persons  are  generally  more  devout  than 
others,  because  they  then  see  their  own  misery,  that 
nothing  in  this  world  can  help  them,  and  that  God  is 
their  only  refuge. 

We  must  change  our  lives,  if  we  desire  to  change 
our  hearts.  God  will  have  no  regard  to  the  prayers 
of  those  who  have  none  to  his  commands. 

The  spirit  of  God  will  not  dwell  in  a  divided  heart. 
We  cannot  feel  the  pleasures  of  devotion,  while  the 
world  is  our  delight.  Not  that  all  pleasures  are 
criminal,  but  the  closer  union  we  have  with  the 
world,  the  less  is  our  union  with  God.  A  Christian, 
therefore,  who  strives  after  devotion,  should  taste 
sensual  pleasures  very  sparingly,  should  make  neces- 
sity, not  bodily  delight,  his  rule. 

In  order  to  dispose  our  hearts  to  devotion,  the 
active  life  is  to  be  preferred  to  the  contemplative. 

To  be  doing  good  to  mankind,  disposes  the  soul 
most  powerfully  to  devotion.  And  indeed,  we  are 
surrounded  with  motives  to  piety  and  devotion,  if  we 
would  but  mind  them. 

The  poor  are  designed  to  excite  our  liberality  ; 
the  miserable,  our  pity ;  the  sick,  our  assistance  ; 
the  ignorant,  our  instruction  ;  those  that  are  fallen, 
our  helping  hand.  In  those  that  are  vain,  we  see 
the  vanity  of  this  world.  In  those  that  are  wicked, 
our  own  frailty.  When  we  see  good  men  rewarded, 
it  confirms  our  hope  ;  and  when  evil  men  are  pun- 
ished, it  excites  our  fear. 

He  that  would  be  devout,  must  beware  of  indulg- 
ing a  habit  of  wandering  in  prayer.     It  is  a  crime 

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ON    DEVOTION    AND    PRAYER.  15 

that  will  grow  upon  us,  and  will  deprive  us  of  the 
blessings  we  pray  for. 

Avoid,  as  much  as  may  be,  multiplicity  of  busi- 
ness :  neither  the  innocency,  nor  the  goodness  of 
the  employment,  will  excuse  us,  if  it  possess  our 
hearts  when  we  are  praying  to  God. 

When  our  Lord  bids  us  to  take  no  thought  for 
the  morrow,  he  intended  to  hinder  those  cares  and 
fears  which  are  apt  to  distract  our  devotions, — which 
are  the  more  unreasonable,  because  they  never  can 
change  the  state  of  things. 

Never  be  curious  to  know  what  passes  in  the 
world,  any  further  than  duty  obliges  you  ;  it  will  only 
distract  the  mind  when  it  should  be  better  employed. 

Never  intermit  devotion,  if  you  can  help  it ;  you 
will  return  to  your  duty,  like  Samson,  v/hen  his  locks 
were  cut,  weak  and  indifferent  as  other  people  of  the 
world. 

The  oftener  we  renew  our  intercourse  with  God, 
the  greater  will  be  our  devotion. 

Frequent  prayer,  as  it  is  an  exercise  of  holy 
thoughts,  is  a  most  natural  remedy  against  the  power 
of  sin- 
Importunity  makes  no  change  in  God,  but  it 
creates  in  us  such  dispositions  as  God  thinks  fit  to 
reward. 

Make  it  a  law  to  yourself  to  meditate  before  you 
pray ;  as  also  to  make  certain  pauses,  to  see  whether 
your  heart  goes  along  with  your  lips. 

They   whose    hearts    desire    nothing,    pray    for 
nothing. 
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ON    DEVOTION    AND    PRAYER. 


Give  me,  O  God,  the  spirit  of  true  devotion,  such 
as  may  give  life  to  all  my  prayers,  so  that  they  may 
find  acceptance  in  Thy  sight,  for  Jesus  Christ's 
sake !  Amen. 


N.  B.  The  Meditations  and  Prayers  which  are  proper  for  the  Clergy 
only,  or  which  weie  suitable  peculiarly  to  the  Author,  are  printed  between 
crotchets  [  ]  foi  the  sake  of  assisting  the  private  devotions  of  the  pious 
reader. 


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SACRA  PRIYATA 


"  Thou,  when  thou  prayest,  enter  into  thy  closet,  and  when  thou  hast  shut 
thy  door,  pray  to  thy  Father  which  is  in  secret ;  and  thy  Father,  which 
seeth  in  secret,  shall  reward  thee  openly." — Matthew  vi.  6. 

How  good  is  God  !  who  will  not  only  give  us 
what  we  pray  for,  but  will  reward  us  for  going  to 
Him,  and  laying  our  wants  before  Him. 

May  I  always  present  myself  before  God — with  a 
firm  faith  and  hope  in  his  promises  and  mercy ;  with 
great  reverence  to  His  infinite  Majesty ;  with  the 
humility  of  an  offender  ;  and  with  a  full  purpose  of 
keeping  all  God's  commands. 

May  the  thoughts  of  eternity  quicken  my  devo- 
tions ;  my  wants  make  me  earnest;  my  backslidings 
make  me  persevere  ;  and  may  I  never  wilfully  give 
way  to  any  distracting  thoughts ! 

May  I  wait  with  patience,  and  leave  it  to  Thee, 
my  God  and  Father,  how  and  when  to  grant  my 
petitions  ! 

He  that  has  learned  to  pray  as  he  ought,  has  got 
the  secret  of  a  holy  life. 


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18  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

It  is  of  greater  advantage  to  us  than  we  imagine, 
that  God  does  not  grant  our  petitions  immediately. 
We  learn  by  tliat,  that  whereunto  we  have  already 
attained,  it  was  the  gift  of  God. 

The  best  way  to  prevent  wandering  in  prayer  is, 
not  to  let  the  mind  wander  too  much  at  other  times  ; 
but  to  have  God  always  in  our  minds  in  the  whole 
course  of  our  lives.  The  end  of  prayer  is  not  to  in- 
form God,  but  to  give  man  a  sight  of  his  own  misery; 
to  raise  his  soul  towards  heaven,  and  to  put  him  in 
mind  that  there  is  his  Father  and  his  inheritance. 

"  Ask,  and  it  shall  be  given  unto  you,"  Matthew 
vii.  7.  Grant  me.  Lord,  a  faith  which  shall  make  me 
know  my  wants,  that  I  may  ask  them  with  earnest- 
ness and  humility,  and  depend  upon  Thy  gracious 
promise. 


THE  DUTIES   OF  A  CHRISTIAN. 

That  man  leads  a  sincere  Christian  life, 

1st.  Who  endeavours  to  serve  and  obey  God  to 
the  best  of  his  understanding  and  power. 

2dly.  Who  strives  to  please  his  neighbour  to  edi- 
fication. 

3dly.  Who  endeavours  to  do  his  duty  in  that 
state  of  life  unto  which  it  has  pleased  God  to  call 
him. 

Whoever  would  continue  in  the  practice  of  these 
things  unto  his  life's  end,  it    is  necessary  that  he 

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SACRA    PRIVATA.  19 

should  call  himself  often  to  an  account,  whether  he 
does  so  or  not ;  constantly  pray  for  grace  to  know, 
and  to  do  his  duty ;  and  preserve  himself  in  such  a 
teachable  temper  as  to  be  always  ready  to  receive 
the  truth,  when  it  is  fairly  proposed  to  him. 


[THE  DUTIES  OF  A  BISHOP, 

(The  state  of  life  unto  wliich  it  has  pleased  God  to  call  rae,) 

By  the  laws  of  God  and  the  Church,  are,  To  in- 
struct the  people  committed  to  his  charge,  out  of  the 
holy  Scriptures  ;  and  to  teach,  or  maintain,  no  doc- 
trine but  what  may  be  proved  from  thence.    Sunday. 

To  exercise  himself  in  those  holy  Scriptures ;  to 
call  upon  God  for  the  true  understanding  of  the  same. 
Monday. 

To  use  all  faithful  diligence  in  driving  away  all 
doctrines  contrary  to  God's  Word,  and  to  encourage 
others  so  to  do.      Tuesday. 

To  deny  all  ungodliness  and  worldly  lusts,  and  to 
live  a  sober,  righteous,  and  godly  life,  so  as  to  be  an 
example  unto  others.      Wednesday. 

To  maintain  and  set  forward,  as  much  as  may 
be,  quietness,  love,  and  peace,  among  all  men  ;  and 
to  correct  and  punish  the  unruly,  criminous,  and 
disobedient,  as  fir  as  God's  Word,  and  the  laws  of 
the  land,  do  require  and  v/ill  warrant.      Thursday. 

To  be  faithful  in  ordaining,  sending,  or  laying 
hands  upon  others.     Friday. 

To  be  gentle  and  merciful,  far   Christ's   sake,  to 

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20  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

poor  and  needy  people,  and  to  all  strangers,  destitute 
of  help.     Saturday/. 

THE    PRAYER. 

Almighty  God,  give  me  grace  and  power  faith- 
fully to  perform  these  duties  of  my  high  calling;  that 
I  may  be  found  perfect  and  irreprehensible  at  the 
last  day,  through  Jesus  Christ.     Amen.] 

Prevent,  O  Lord,  the  wants  of  a  heart  which 
knows  not  even  how  to  lay  them  open  before  Thee : 
which  does  not  so  much  as  think  of  doing  it :  and 
which  does  too  often  shut  out  the  light  and  consola- 
tion of  which  it  stands  in  need. 

It  is  a  rudeness  amongst  men  to  ask  a  favour, 
and  not  stay  for  an  answer.  And  do  we  count  it  no 
fault  to  pray  for  blessings,  and  never  to  think  of  them 
afterwards, — never  to  wait  for  them,  never  to  give 
God  thanks  for  them  ? 

Let  us  not  run  over  our  prayers  with  an  insensi- 
ble and  distracted  mind. 

Let  your  prayers  be  as  particular  as  may  be, 
against  the  sins  of  your  particular  state,  and  for  the 
graces  which  you  in  particular  do  most  stand  in  need 
of  This  is  the  best  preservative  against  sin ;  makes 
us  best  acquainted  with  our  condition  ;  puts  us  con- 
tinually in  mind  of  mending  what  is  amiss  ;  lets  us 
see  what  particular  graces  we  most  want,  what  are 
most  needful  for  the  cure  of  our  own  particular  cor- 
ruption and  disorder ;  and  is  the  best  trial  of  our 
hearts.  For  example  :  if  I  pray  for  charity,  and  for 
every  instance  which  is  necessary  to  render  me  truly 

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SACRA    PRIVATA.  21 

charitable,  I  pray  for  grace  to  avoid  evil-speaking — 
to  pray  for  my  enemies, — to  do  them  good,  &/C.,  and 
so  of  all  other  sins  and  graces. 

God  grant  that  I  may  never  seek  Thy  face  in 
vain  ! 

["  The  effectual  fervent  prayer  of  a  righteous  man 
availeth  much." — James  v.  16. 

This  ought  to  make  me  aspire  after  every  possi- 
ble degree  of  holiness,  that  God  may  hear  my  pray- 
ers for  my  flock,  and  for  such  as  have  desired  my 
prayers. 

"  When  thou  didst  pray,  I  did  bring  the  remem- 
brance of  your  prayers  before  the  Holy  One  ;  and 
vrhen  thou  didst  bury  the  dead,  I  was  with  thee." — 
Tobit  xii.  12. 

May  the  good  Spirit  of  God  assist  me  in  the 
performance  of  my  duty.  Fix  my  attention,  excite 
my  affections,  and  inflame  my  devotions,  that  I  may 
attend  upon  the  Lord  with  pleasure  and  without  dis- 
traction. 

Let  us  make  prayer  familiar  to  i»s  ;  for  without 
the  help  of  God,  we  are  every  hour  in  danger. 

"  And  Aaron  shall  bear  the  names  of  the  chil- 
dren of  Israel  in  the  breast-plate  of  judgment  upon 
his  heart,  when  he  goeth  in  unto  the  holy  place,  for 
a  memorial  before  the  Lord  continually." — Exodus 
xxviii.  29. 

Let  Thy  merciful  ears,  O  God,  be  open  unto  the 
prayers  of  Thy  servant  for  himself,  and  for  the  flock 
over  which  the  Holy  Ghost  hath  made  him  overseer, 
for  the  Lord  Jesus'  sake.     Amen. 

O 


o o 

22  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

O  Lord,  say  Amen  to  our  prayers,  and  grant  that 
my  whole  flock  may  be  made  partakers  of  the  bless- 
ings we  have  now  prayed  for  ;  and  may  Thy  blessings 
be  upon  them  for  ever.     Amen. 

The  devil  knows,  that  when  we  have  a  relish  for 
prayer,  and  apply  ourselves  in  good  earnest  to  it,  we 
are  in  the  way  of  life ;  he  therefore  strives  by  all 
ways  possible  to  divert  us.] 

"  Lord,  teach  us  to  pray." — Luke  xi.  1. 

Pour  upon  us  the  spirit  of  supplication  and  prayer. 

God  will  deny  us  nothing  that  we  ask  in  the  name 
of  His  Son. 

PRAYERS    THROUGH    JESUS    CHRIST. 

When  we  offer  our  prayers  through  His  mediation, 
it  is  then  He  that  prays.  His  love  that  intercedes.  His 
blood  that  pleads,  it  is  He  who  obtains  all  from  His 
Father. 

PREPARATORY    PRAYER. 

O  holy  Spirit  of  grace  !  give  us  a  true  sight  of 
our  miseries,  and  a  sincere  shame  and  sorrow  when 
we  make  confession  of  our  sins :  a  feelins:  sense  of 
our  need  of  mercy,  and  a  hope  of  obtaining  pardon, 
when  we  beg  it  for  Thy  Son's  sake.  May  we  resign 
our  wills  to  Thee  and  to  Thy  goodness,  when  we 
pray  for  temporal  things  ;  and  when  we  pray  for  spir- 
itual graces,  may  we  hunger  and  thirst  after  right- 
eousness. Give  us  a  real  love  for  Thy  Holy  Word, 
and  grace  to  hear  it  with  attention.  May  we  thank- 
fully close  with  all  the  means  of  grace  and  salvation. 

O O 


Q P 

SACRA    PRIVATA.  23 

When  we  praise  Thee  for  Thy  works  of  nature  and 
of  grace,  and  give  Thee  thanks  for  Thy  mercies,  let 
us  do  it  with  high  esteem  and  gratitude.  Cause  us  to 
hear  Thy  Holy  Word  with  faith  and  attention,  and  to 
profit  by  what  we  hear,  that  we  may  return  from 
Thy  church  with  a  blessing. 


MORNING  PRAYER. 

"  Choose  you  this  day  whom  you  will  serve." — Joshua  xxiv.  15. 

Whom  have  I  in  heaven  but  Thee,  O  Lord  ?  and 
there  is  none  on  earth  that  I  desire  besides  Thee. 
Thou  art  my  God,  and  I  will  thank  Thee :  Thou  art 
my  God,  and  I  will  serve  Thee.  Be  thou  my  only 
Ruler  and  Governor. 

They  that  have  a  convenient  place  to  sleep  in, 
and  they  that  have  the  comfort  of  sleep,  have  both 
great  reason  to  be  thankful.  And  even  they  that 
want  these  mercies,  ought  to  bless  God,  if  in  the 
midst  of  their  afflictions  He  is  pleased  to  refresh 
them  with  the  comforts  of  grace. 

Gracious  God,  continue  to  me  these  favours  so 
long,  and  in  such  a  measure,  as  shall  most  contribute 
to  Thy  honour,  and  my  salvation.  And  in  great 
mercy  support  and  relieve  all  that  want  these  bless- 
ings. 

What  shall  I  offer  unto  the  Lord  for  His  mercies 
renewed  unto  me  every  morning  ? — "  The  sacrifice 


-O 


O Q 

24  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

of  God  is  a  troubled  spirit ;  a  broken  and  contrite 
heart  God  will  not  despise."* 

But  most  unfit  is  mine  to  be  to  God  presented 
until  I  have  obtained  his  pardon,  through  the  merits 
of  the  Lord  Jesus,  for  the  many  sins  by  which  it  hath 
been  defiled. 

"  I  am  merciful,  saith  the  Lord,  and  1  will  not 
keep  anger  for  ever.  Only  acknowledge  thine  ini- 
quity, that  thou  hast  transgressed  against  the  Lord 
thy  God." — Jeremiah  iii.  12. 

"  I  acknowledge  my  sin  unto  Thee,  O  God,  and 
mine  iniquities  will  I  not  hide." — Psalm  xxxii.  5. 

I  do  therefore  implore  Thy  pardon,  and  plead  Thy 
gracious  promises,  with  full  purpose  of  heart,  by  the 
assistance  of  Thy  grace,  never  again  to  return  to 
folly. 

"  The  heart  is  deceitful  above  all  things,  and  des- 
perately wicked:  who  can  know  it?" — Jeremiah 
xvii.  9. 

I  cannot  answer  for  my  own  heart, — but  there 
is  no  word,  O  Lord,  impossible  with  Thee ;  in 
Thee  I  do  put  my  trust ;  let  me  never  be  put  to  con- 
fusion. 

Keep  it  ever  in  the  heart  of  Thy  servant,  "  that 
it  is  indeed  an  evil  thing  and  bitter  to  offend  the  Lord." 

Keep  me  from  presumptuous  sins  ;  that  I  may 
never  grieve  Thy  Holy  Spirit,  nor  provoke  Thee  to 
leave  me  to  myself 

"  Watch  and  pray,  that  ye  enter  not  into  tempta- 
tion."— Matthew  xxvi.  4L 

*  Psalm  li.  17. 
O ; 


Q O 

SACRA    PRIVATA.  25 

Lord,  make  me  ever  mindful  of  my  infirmi- 
ties and  backslidings,  that  I  may  be  more  watch- 
ful, and  more  importunate  for  grace  for  the  time  to 
come, 

''  Be  sober,  be  vigilant,  because  your  adversary 
the  devil,  as  a  roaring  lion,  vt^alketh  about,  seeking 
whom  he  may  devour." — 1  Peter  v.  8. 

O  Lord,  grant  that  this  adversary  of  our  souls 
may  never  find  me  off  my  guard,  or  from  under  Thy 
protection. 

"  If  any  man  will  come  after  Me,  let  him  deny 
himself,  take  up  his  cross,  and  follow  Me." — Mat- 
thew xvi.  24. 

O  my  Saviour  !  how  long  have  I  professed  to  fol- 
low Thee,  without  following  the  blessed  steps  of  Thy 
most  holy  lifb — thy  patience  and  humility — Thy  great 
disregard  for  the  world,  its  pleasures,  profits,  honours, 
and  all  its  idols. 

O  Lord,  obtain  for  me  the  spirit  of  mortification 
and  self-denial,  that  I  may  follow  Thee,  as  I  hope  to 
live  with  Thee  for  ever.     Amen. 

"  No  man  can  serve  two  masters.  Ye  cannot 
serve  God  and  mammon." — Matthew  vii.  24. 

May  my  fear  and  love  never  be  divided  between 
Thee  and  the  world.  May  I  never  set  up  any  thing, 
O  God,  in  competition  with  Thee  in  the  possession 
of  my  heart.  May  I  never  attempt  to  reconcile  Thy 
service  with  that  world  which  is  at  enmity  with  Thee, 
my  God  and  Father. 

"  What  shall  I  do  that  I  may  inherit  eternal  life  V 
—Mark  x.  17. 

1_ i 


O Q 

26  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

"  Thou  shalt  love  the  Lord  thy  God  with  all  thy 
heart,  and  with  all  thy  soul,  and  with  all  thy  mind  ; 
and  thou  shalt  love  thy  neighbour  as  thyself." 

O  that  this  love  of  God  may  be  the  commanding 
principle  of  my  soul !  May  I  always  have  this  com- 
fortable proof  of  his  love  abiding  in  me,  that  I  study 
to  please  Him  and  to  keep  His  commandments. 
And  may  my  love  to  my  neighbour  be  such  as  He 
has  commanded,  that  I  may  forgive,  and  give,  and 
love,  as  becomes  a  disciple  of  Jesus  Christ.     Amen. 

"  Fear  God,  and  keep  his  commandments,  for  this 
is  the  whole  duty  of  man ;"  that  is,  the  happiness  of 
man. — Ecclesiastes  xii.  13. 

May  I,  great  God,  continue  in  thy  fear  all  the  day 
long.     May  I  keep  thy  statutes,  and  observe  thy  laws. 

"  All  things  are  naked  and  open  unto  the  eyes  of 
Him  with  whom  we  have  to  do." — Heb.  iv.  13. 

Grant  that  1  may  always  live  and  act  as  having 
Thee,  O  God,  the  constant  witness  of  my  conduct, 
for  Jesus  Christ's  sake. 

["  Take  heed  unto  yourselves,  and  unto  all  the 
flock  over  which  the  Holy  Ghost  hath  made  you  over- 
seers."— Acts  XX.  28. 

Make  me,  O  Lord,  a  faithful  Overseer,  and  all 
those  that  labour  with  me  in  the  work  of  the  minis- 
try, every  day  more  worthy  of  our  calling.  And 
grant  unto  the  people  of  our  flock,  that  they  may 
profit  by  us  daily,  for  Jesus  Christ's  sake,  the  su- 
preme Bishop  and  Pastor. 

"  The  good  shepherd  giveth  his  life  for  the  sheep." 
— John  X.  11. 

—0 


O-^^ o 

SACRA    PRIVATA.  27 

O  Sovereign  Pastor  !  who  gavest  Thy  life  for  Thy 
sheep,  grant  that  I  may  never  sacrifice  Thy  flock  to 
my  ovv^n  ease,  convenience,  profit,  or  pleasure.  But 
that  I  may  employ  my  time,  my  substance,  my  care, 
my  labours,  my  prayers,  for  their  welfare  continually, 
and  thus,  at  least,  "  give  my  life  for  my  sheep." 

''  I  send  you  forth  as  sheep  among  wolves  ;  be  ye 
therefore  wise  as  serpents,  and  harmless  as  doves." — 
Matthew  x.  16. 

Give  me,  O  Jesus,  this  wisdom  and  simplicity, 
that  the  cause  of  God  may  never  suffer  by  my  igno- 
rance or  perverseness.  Take  me  and  my  flock  under 
Thy  protection  ;  and  abandon  us  not  to  the  rage  of 
wolves.  Let  me  never  oppose  any  thing  to  the  vio- 
lence of  man  but  meekness  of  spirit. 

**  If  a  man  know  not  how  to  rule  his  own  house, 
how  shall  he  take  care  of  the  church  of  God  V — 
1  Timothy  iii.  5. 

Grant,  O  Lord,  that  my  care  and  conduct  in  the 
church  of  God  may  appear  in  the  order  and  piety  of 
my  own  family.  O  heavenly  Lord  and  Master,  bless 
us,  and  take  us  under  Thy  gracious  protection  ;  make 
us  a  household  fearing  God,  and  examples  to  others 
of  order,  diligence,  faithfulness,  and  piety.] 

*'  Whatsoever  thy  hand  findeth  to  do,  do  it  with 
all  thy  might ;  for  the  night  cometh  when  no  man 
can  work." — Ecclesiastes  ix.  10. 

Make  me,  O  Lord,  ever  sensible  of  the  great  evil 
of  delaying  the  work  in  its  season,  which  Thou  hast 
appointed,  lest  the  night  surprise  me  unawares. 

"  This  is  the  confidence  we  have  in  God,  that  if 

6 


28  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

we  ask  any  thing  according  to  His  will,  He  heareth 
us." — 1  John  V.  14. 

That  it  may  be  unto  Thy  servant  according  to 
this  word,  I  beseech  Thee  to  hear  me  in  the  full  im- 
portance of  that  holy  prayer  which  thy  blessed  Son 
hath  taught  us  : — 

OUR    FATHER    WHICH    ART    IN    HEAVEN; 

In  whom  we  live,  and  move,  and  have  our  being  ; 
grant  that  I,  and  all  Christians,  may  live  worthy  of 
this  glorious  relation,  and  that  we  may  not  sin,  know- 
ing that  we  are  accounted  Thine. 

We  are  thine  by  adoption  ;  O  make  us  Thine  by 
the  choice  of  our  will. 

HALLOWED    BE    THY    NAME. 

O  God,  whose  name  is  great,  wonderful,  and  holy, 
grant  that  I,  and  all  Thy  children,  may  glorify  Thee, 
not  only  with  our  lips,  but  in  our  lives ;  that  others, 
seeing  our  good  works,  may  glorify  our  Father  which 
is  in  heaven. 

THY    KINGDOM    COME. 

May  the  kingdoms  of  the  world  become  the  king- 
doms of  the  Lord  and  of  his  Christ.  And  may  all 
that  own  Thee  for  their  King,  become  Thy  faithful 
subjects,  and  obey  Thy  laws.  Dethrone,  O  God,  and 
destroy  Satan  and  his  kingdom  ;  and  enlarge  the 
kincrdom  of  grace. 

o —6 


SACRA    PRIVATA.  29 

THY  WILL  BE  DONE  IN  EARTH,  AS  IT  IS  IN  HEAVEN. 

We  adore  Thy  goodness,  O  God,  in  making  Thy 
will  known  to  us  in  Thy  Holy  Word.  May  this  Thy 
Word  be  the  rule  of  our  will,  of  our  desires,  of  our 
lives,  and  actions.  May  we  ever  sacrifice  our  will  to 
Thine ;  be  pleased  with  all  Thy  choices  for  ourselves 
and  others,  and  adore  thy  providence  in  the  govern- 
ment of  the  world. 

GIVE    us    THIS    DAY    OUR    DAILY    BREAD. 

O  heavenly  Father,  who  knowest  what  we  have 
need  of,  give  us  the  necessaries  and  comforts  of  this 
life  with  Thy  blessing ;  but  above  all,  give  us  the 
bread  that  nourisheth  to  eternal  life. 

"  O  God,  who  giveth  to  all  life,  and  breath,  and 
all  things,"  give  us  grace  to  impart  to  such  as  are  in 
want,  of  what  Thou  hast  given  more  than  our  daily 
bread. — Acts  xvii.  25. 

AND     FORGIVE    US     OUR    TRESPASSES     AS    WE     FORGIVE 
THEM    THAT    TRESPASS    AGAINST    US. 

Make  us  truly  sensible  of  thy  goodness  and  mercy 
and  patience  towards  us,  that  we  may  from  our  hearts 
forgive  every  one  his  brother  their  trespasses. 

May  my  enemies  ever  have  place  in  my  prayers, 
and  in  Thy  mercy. 

AND  LEAD  US  NOT  INTO  TEMPTATION. 

Support  us,  O  heavenly  Father,   under   all  our 


O 


0 Q 

30  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

saving  trials,  and  grant  that  they  may  yield  us  the 
peaceable  fruits  of  righteousness. 

BUT    DELIVER    US    FROM    EVIL. 

From  all  sin  and  wickedness,  from  our  ghostly 
enemy,  and  from  everlasting  death,  good  Lord  de- 
liver us. 

Deliver  us  from  the  evil  of  sin,  and  from  the  evil 
of  punishment. 

Deliver  us,  O  heavenly  Father,  from  our  evil  and 
corrupt  nature,  from  the  temptations  and  snares  of  an 
evil  world,  and  from  falling  again  into  the  sins  we 
have  repented  of. 

FOR   THINE   IS    THE    KINGDOM,   THE    POWER,   AND    THE 
GLORY,    FOR    EVER    AND    EVER.       AMEN. 

By  Thy  Almighty  power,  O  King  of  heaven,  for 
the  glory  of  Thy  name,  and  for  the  love  of  a  Father, 
grant  us  all  these  blessings  which  Thy  Son  has 
taught  us  to  pray  for. 

Unto  Him  that  is  able  to  do  for  us  abundantly 
more  than  we  can  ask  or  think,  unto  Him  be  glory, 
in  the  church  by  Christ  Jesus,  throughout  all  ages, 
world  without  end.     Amen.* 

To  God  the  Creator,  the  Preserver,  and  Disposer 
of  all  things,  be  the  glory  of  all  the  good  wrought  in 
us,  by  us,  and  upon  us. 


*  Ephosians  iii.  20. 


'O 


SACRA    PRIVATA.  31 

Blessing,  and  glory,  and  wisdom,  and  thanksgiv- 
ing, and  honour,  and  power,  and  might,  be  unto  our 
God  for  ever  and  ever.     Amen. 

Thine  infinite  power,  wisdom,  goodness,  faithful- 
ness, and  truth,  are  the  only  foundation  on  which  we 
may  surely  depend.  O  give  us  a  firm  faith  in  these 
thy  glorious  perfections. 

With  angels  and  archangels,  and  all  the  company 
of  heaven,  we  laud  and  magnify  Thy  glorious  name, 
evermore  praising  Thee,  and  saying.  Holy,  Holy, 
Holy,  Lord  God  of  Hosts,  heaven  and  earth  are  full 
of  thy  glory.  Glory  be  to  Thee,  O  God  most  high. 
Amen. 

*'  Now  unto  Him  that  is  able  to  keep  you  from 
falling,  and  to  present  you  faultless  before  the  pre- 
sence of  His  glory  with  exceeding  joy,  to  the  only 
wise  God  our  Saviour,  be  glory  and  majesty,  do- 
minion and  power,  both  now  and  ever.  Amen." — 
Jude  24,  25. 

''  For  of  Him,  and  through  Him,  and  to  Him,  are 
all  things,  to  whom  be  glory  for  ever.  Amen." — 
Romans  xi.  36. 

"  To  God  only  wise  be  glory  through  Jesus  Christ, 
for  ever  and  ever.     Amen." — Romans  xvi.  27. 

"  Let  your  light  so  shine  before  men,  that  they 
may  see  your  good  works,  and  glorify  your  Father 
which  is  in  heaven." — Matthew  v.  16. 

O  my  great  Master  !  may  I  edify  others  by  my 
example ;  dispense  the  light  which  Thy  grace  shall 
vouchsafe  me,  and  in  all  humility  direct  all  the  glory 
to  God. 


-o 


32  SACRA    PRIVATA. 


"  Be  ye  perfect,  even  as  your  Father  which  is  in 
heaven  is  perfect." — Matthew  v.  48. 

All  my  endeavours  without  Thy  assistance,  O 
Jesus,  will  be  ineffectual.] 

"  All  things  are  possible  to  Him  that  believeth." 
—Mark  ix.  23. 

Yes,  Lord,  and  therefore  I  beg  that  faith  of  Him 
to  whom  all  things  are  possible,  that  I  may  be  able 
to  discover,  to  avoid,  to  resist,  and  to  root  out  what- 
ever is  evil  in  me. 

O  Jesus,  obtain  this  grace  for  Thy  otherwise  help- 
less creature. 

Grant  that  I  may  this  day  escape  all  the  snares 
laid  f6r  me  by  the  devil,  the  world,  or  mine  own  cor- 
rupt heart. 

Grant  that  I  may  this  day  omit  no  part  of  my  duty. 

"  Give  thyself  wholly  to  these  things,  that  Thy 
profiting  may  appear  to  all." — 1  Timothy  iv.  15. 

God  grant  that  I  may  do  so ;  and  I  pray  God 
preserve  me  from  ease,  idleness,  and  trifling  away  my 
precious  time. 

"  I  thank  my  God,  making  mention  of  thee 
always  in  my  prayers." — Philemon  4. 

[O  God,  the  God  of  the  spirits  of  all  flesh,  have 
respect  unto  the  prayer  of  Thy  servant  on  behalf  of 
himself  and  of  his  people.  Lord,  give  us  true  re- 
pentance for  our  great  and  crying  sins,  root  out  all 
growing  vices,  and  avert  the  judgments  which  we 
have  justly  deserved. 

Put  Thy  fear  into  our  hearts,  and  preserve  this 
church  in  the  midst  of  this  uncertain  world.     Keep 

6 b 


O Q 

SACRA    PRIVATA.  33 

US  from  all  wild  and  dangerous  errors,  and  prepare 
us  for  what  Thy  providence  shall  bring  forth. 

Bless  the  Lord  of  this  isle  with  a  spirit  of  wisdom, 
justice,  and  the  fear  of  God  ;  provide  his  offices  and 
council  with  able  men,  such  as  fear  God,  men  of 
truth,  hatiuff  covetousness. 

Endue  the  clergy  with  all  those  graces  and  abili- 
ties, that  are  necessary  to  fit  them  for  their  high  call- 
ing.] 

Extend  and  suit  Thy  graces  to  all  conditions  of 
men  amongst  us,  that  we  may  all  be  upright  in  our 
dealings,  obedient  to  our  governors,  peaceable  in  our 
lives,  sober,  honest,  temperate,  chaste  in  our  conver- 
sation, and  charitable  to  the  poor,  and  one  towards 
another. 

Increase  the  number  and  the  graces  of  all  such  as 
love  and  fear  Thee.  Enlighten  the  minds  of  the 
ignorant,  awaken  the  consciences  of  the  careless, 
silence  the  gainsayers,  convert  the  profane,  and  all 
that  hold  the  truth  in  unrighteousness. 

Rebuke  the  spirit  of  antichrist,  idolatry,  and 
libertinism, — the  sins  of  drunkenness,  whoredom, 
litigiousness,  and  defrauding  the  public. 

In  tender  mercy,  remember,  O  God,  all  sick  and 
dying  persons,  that  they  may  omit  nothing  that  is 
necessary  to  make  their  peace  with  Thee.  Be  gra- 
cious unto  all  that  are  in  affliction  of  mind  or  body, 
or  under  any  pressing  calamity,  all  desolate  widows 
and  fatherless  children,  all  that  call  upon  Thee  in 
their  distress,  and  have  none  else  to  help  them. 


"  The  King's  heart  is  in  the  hand  of  the  Lord 
2* 


-O 


Q __ 

34  SACRA   PRIVATA. 

as  the  rivers  of  water,  he  turneth  it  whithersoever  he 
will." — Proverbs  xxi.  1. 

Let  this  Thy  power,  O  Lord,  be  magnified  on  his 
Majesty,  and  on  all  that  are  put  in  authority  under 
him,  that  we  may  be  governed  with  truth  and  justice, 
by  men  fearing  and  honouring  God,  protecting  the 
Christian  religion,  and  punishing  evil-doers.  To  this 
end  vouchsafe  them,  I  beseech  Thee,  all  the  graces 
necessary  for  their  high  station,  and  for  their  eternal 
happiness. 

"  Masters,  give  unto  your  servants  that  which  is 
just  and  equal,  knowing  that  ye  also  have  a  Master 
in  heaven." — Colossians  iv.  1. 

O  heavenly  Lord  and  Master,  direct  me  to,  and 
bless  me  with,  good  and  faithful  servants.  Let  Thy 
blessing  be  upon  them,  and  upon  my  affairs  commit- 
ted to  their  care  ;  and  may  I  never  be  wanting  in 
any  part  of  my  duty  to  them,  for  Jesus  Christ's  sake. 


RELATIONS,  BENEFACTORS,  ETC. 

Be  gracious,  O  Lord,  unto  my  relations,  bene- 
factors, enemies,  and  all  that  have  desired  my  pray- 
ers ;  all  who,  by  their  own  labours,  do  minister  to 
our  necessities ;  together  with  all  our  known  and  un- 
known benefactors.  Render,  O  God,  a  good  re- 
ward, and  a  plentiful  return,  to  all  those  who  have 
been  kind  and  charitable.  Grant  that  we  may  all  so 
live  here,  as  that  we  may  meet  hereafter  in  the  para- 
dise of  God. 

t) ■     —6 


-o 


SACRA    PRIVATA. 


35 


[for  myself  and  labours. 

Bless  all  my  labours  for  Thy  glory,  O  Lord,  and 
for  the  good  of  Thy  Church.] 

"  Verily  I  say  unto  you,  whatsoever  ye  shall  ask 
the  Father  in  my  name,  he  will  give  it  you." — John 
xvi.  23. 

These  are  what  I  ask,  O  God  and  Father,  above 
all  things,  for  myself,  and  for  all  that  have  desired 
my  prayers  : — That  we  may  be  restored  to  Thy  like- 
ness, and  never  deface  it  by  our  sins  ;  that  the  image 
of  Satan  may  be  destroyed  in  us,  that  all  carnal  affec- 
tions may  die  in  us,  and  that  all  things  belonging  to 
the  Spirit  may  dwell  in  our  hearts  by  faith ;  that 
Thy  name,  and  the  name  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ, 
may  be  glorified  in  us,  and  we  in  him,  that  our  hearts 
may  be  entirely  Thine;  that  we  may  never  grieve 
Thy  Holy  Spirit ;  but  that  we  may  continue  Thine 
for  ever,  for  Jesus  Christ's  sake.     Amen. 

"  Let  no  corrupt  communication  proceed  out  of 
your  mouth,  but  that  which  is  good  to  the  use  of 
edifying,  that  it  may  minister  grace  unto  the  hear- 
ers."— Ephesians  iv.  29. 

Grant,  O  God,  that  I  may  delight  in  Thy  law, 
that  my  conversation  may  be  truly  Christian.  [En- 
able me  to  speak  of  Thy  divine  perfections  as  be- 
comes a  Christian  bishop,  that  I  may  minister  grace 
unto  the  hearers.] 

May  I  never  hear  with  pleasure,  nor  ever  repeat 
such  things  as  may  dishonour  God,  or  injure  my 
neighbour,  or  my  own  character. 


6- 


o o 

36  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

"  Speak  not  evil  one  of  another." — James  iv.  11. 

"  Foolish  talking  or  jesting  are  not  convenient, 
but  rather  giving  of  thanks." — Eph.  v.  4. 

"  Set  a  watch,  O  Lord,  before  my  mouth,  and 
keep  the  door  of  my  lips." — Ps.  cxxxiii.  3. 

"  Out  of  the  abundance  of  the  heart  the  mouth 
speaketh.  How  can  ye,  being  evil,  speak  good 
things  ?" — Matthew  xii.  34. 

O  Holy  Spirit  of  grace,  enable  me  to  overcome 
the  shame  of  a  degenerate  age,  which  will  hear  no- 
thing with  delight,  but  what  concerns  this  world. 
O  touch  my  heart  with  the  true  love  of  God,  the  ex- 
cellencies of  His  laws,  the  pleasantness  of  His  ser- 
vice, the  wonders  of  His  providences,  &/C.  [that  I 
may  edify  those  that  hear  me.]  This  I  beg  for  Jesus 
Christ's  sake. 

"  Ask  what  ye  will,  and  it  shall  be  done  unto 
you." — John  xv.  7. 

These,  O  Jesus,  are  the  things  that  I  ask.  In- 
tercede for  me  !  That  I  may  be  truly  sensible  of  the 
diseases  I  labour  under,  and  thankfully  embrace  the 
means  which  Thy  goodness  hath  ordained  for  my 
recovery. 

Grant  that  the  end  of  all  my  actions  and  designs, 
may  be  the  glory  of  God. 

Enable  me  to  resist  all  the  sinful  appetites  of  my 
corrupt  nature. 

Grant  that  I  may  hunger  and  thirst  after  right- 
eousness. 

Vouchsafe  me  the  spirit  of  adoption — of  suppli- 
cation and  prayer — of  praise  and  thanksgiving. 

6. — O 


O Q 

SACRA    PRIVATA.  37 

Obtain  for  me,  O  Jesus,  the  graces  of  mortifica- 
tion and  self-denial ;  the  graces  of  a  true  humility, 
and  the  fear  of  God. 

Grant,  O  God,  that  I  may  never  knowingly  live 
one  moment  under  Thy  displeasure,  or  in  any  known 
sin. 

Grant,  O  God,  that  as  I  have  been  regenerate, 
and  made  Thy  child  by  adoption  and  grace,  I  may 
daily  be  renewed  by  Thy  Holy  Spirit,  for  Jesus 
Christ's  sake. 

Enable  me,  gracious  God,  to  escape  the  corrup- 
tion that  is  in  the  world  through  lust,  that  I  may  be 
partaker  of  the  divine  nature. 

Lord,  grant  me  grace  to  withstand  the  tempta- 
tions of  the  world,  the  flesh,  and  the  devil ;  and  with 
a  pure  heart  and  mind  to  follow  Thee,  the  only  God, 
through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 

Let  Thy  love,  O  God,  be  shed  abroad  in  my 
heart,  by  the  power  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  and  grant  that 
it  may  appear  in  my  life,  my  conversation,  my  words, 
and  actions,  for  Jesus  Christ's  sake. 

Blessed  be  God  that  I  was  admitted  into  the  fel- 
lowship of  Christ's  religion.  Grant,  O  God,  that  I 
may  eschew  all  those  things  that  are  contrary  to  my 
profession,  and  follow  all  such  things  as  are  agree- 
able to  the  same,  for  Jesus  Christ's  sake. 

Keep  me,  I  beseech  Thee,  O  Heavenly  Father, 
under  the  protection  of  Thy  good  providence,  and 
make  me  to  have  a  perpetual  fear  and  love  of  Thy 
holy  name  ;  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord. 

Put  away  from  me  all  hurtful  things,  and  give  me 

I 0 


Q- 


38  SACRA   PRIVATA. 

those  things  that  be  profitable  for  me,  through  Jesus 
Christ. 

Mercifully  grant  unto  me,  O  God,  such  a  mea- 
sure of  Thy  grace,  that  running  the  way  of  Thy 
commandments,  I  may  obtain  thy  gracious  promises, 
and  be  made  partaker  of  Thy  heavenly  treasure, 
through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 

Forgive  me  those  things  whereof  my  conscience 
is  afraid,  and  give  me  those  good  things  which  we 
are  not  worthy  to  ask,  but  through  the  merits  and 
mediation  of  thy  Son  Jesus  Christ. 

That  I  may  obtain  that  which  Thou  dost  pro- 
mise, make  me  to  love  that  which  Thou  dost  com- 
mand, through  Jesus  Christ. 

Keep  me  from  all  things  hurtful,  and  lead  me  to 
all  things  necessary  to  my  salvation,  through  Jesus 
Christ. 

The  Lord  deliver  me  from  every  evil  work,  and 
preserve  me  to  His  heavenly  kingdom  ;  to  whom  be 
glory  for  ever  and  ever.     Amen. 

O  that  Thy  Holy  Spirit  may  direct  and  rule  my 
heart,  O  God,  through  Jesus  Christ. 

Of  Thy  bountiful  goodness,  O  Lord,  keep  me,  I 
beseech  Thee,  from  all  things  that  may  hurt  me,  that 
I  may  cheerfully  accomplish  those  things  which 
Thou  wouldest  have  done,  through  Jesus  Christ  our 
Lord. 

Grant,  O  God,  that  I  may  be  cleansed  from  all 
my  sin,  and  serve  Thee  with  a  quiet  mind,  through 
Jesus  Christ. 

Deliver  me,  O  Lord,  from  the  bonds  of  those 


O- 


-o 


SACRA    PRIVATA.  39 

sins,  which,  through  my  frailty,  I  have  committed, 
for  Jesus  Christ's  sake. 


FAITH. 

O  that  I  may  believe  in  Thee,  O  God,  and  put 
my  whole  confidence  and  trust  in  Thee  alone,  and 
not  in  any  thing  that  I  myself  can  do. 

Grant,  O  God,  that  I  may  so  perfectly  and  with- 
out all  doubt,  believe  in  Thy  Son  Jesus  Christ,  that 
my  faith  in  Thy  sight  may  never  be  reproved,  for 
the  sake  of  the  same  Jesus  Christ. 

AGAINST    WAVERING. 

Grant,  O  God,  that  we  may  not  be  carried  about 
with  every  blast  of  vain  doctrine,  but  that  we  may 
be  firmly  established  in  the  truth  of  Thy  holy  Gos- 
pel, through  Jesus  Christ. 

Grant,  O  God,  that  I  may  perfectly  know  Thy 
Son  Jesus  Christ  to  be  the  way,  the  truth,  and  the 
life — the  Author  of  the  way,  the  Teacher  of  the  truth, 
and  the  Giver  of  life  ;  that  I  may  steadfastly  walk  in 
the  way  that  leadeth  to  eternal  life,  through  the  same 
Jesus  Christ. 

COVETOUSNESS. 

Give  me  grace  to  forsake  all  covetous  desires, 
and  inordinate  love  of  riches  and  pleasures,  through 
Jesus  Christ. 

6 O 


Q— _ O 

40  SACRA    PRIVA.TA. 

Grant  that  1  may  both  perceive  and  know  what 
things  I  ought  to  do,  and  also  may  have  grace  and 
power  faithfully  to  fulfil  the  same,  through  Jesus 
Christ. 

Grant  me,  O  God,  the  true  circumcision  of  the 
Spirit,  that  my  heart,  and  all  my  members,  being 
mortified  from  all  carnal  lusts,  I  may  in  all  things 
obey  Thy  blessed  will. 

O  that  we,  who  know  Thee  now  by  faith,  may, 
after  this  life,  have  the  fruition  of  Thy  glorious  God- 
head ! 

In  all  our  dangers  and  necessities,  stretch  forth 
Thy  right  hand  to  save  and  defend  us. 

CHARITY. 

O,  send  Thy  Holy  Ghost,  and  pour  into  my 
heart  that  most  excellent  gift  of  charity,  that  very 
bond  of  peace  and  of  all  virtue,  without  which, 
whosoever  liveth  is  counted  dead  before  Thee. 

Grant,  I  do  most  humbly  beseech  Thee,  O  God, 
that  as  by  Thy  special  grace  preventing  me,  Thou 
dost  put  into  my  mind  good  desires,  so  by  Thy  con- 
tinual help  I  may  bring  the  same  to  good  effect, 
through  Jesus  Christ. 

O  everlasting  God,  grant  that  as  Thy  holy  An- 
gels always  do  Thee  service  in  heaven,  so  by  Thy 
appointment  they  may  succour  and  defend  us  on 
earth,  through  Jesus  Christ. 

Grant  me  grace  so  to  follow  thy  blessed  saints  in 
virtuous  and  godly  living,  that  I  may  come  to  those 

O : O 


0 

SACRA    PRIVATA.  41 

unspeakable  joys,  which  Thou  hast  prepared  for  them 
that  unfeignedly  love  Thee. 

I  pray  God  that  my  whole  spirit,  (my  understand- 
ing, will,  and  conscience,)  my  soul,  (my  appetites, 
affections,  and  passions,)  and  my  body,  (the  taber- 
nacle of  my  soul,)  be  preserved  blameless  unto  the 
coming  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ  * 

May  I  take  pleasure  in  abidmg  in  Thy  presence, 
O  God,  in  depending  upon  Thee  ;  in  leaving  myself 
entirely  to  Thy  disposal,  as  a  continual  sacrifice  to 
Thy  will. 

Give  me  a  victory  over  all  my  sins  and  imperfec- 
tions, increase  in  me  the  graces  of  faith,  hope,  and 
charity,  of  humility,  meekness,  patience,  and  resig- 
nation, and  all  other  Christian  virtues,  for  Jesus 
Christ's  sake. 

Preserve  me,  gracious  God,  from  spiritual  pride, 
from  ascribing  any  thing  I  have  done,  or  can  do,  to 
myself,  and  robbing  Thee  of  the  glory  of  saving  me 
from  eternal  ruin. 

Take  possession,  O  Jesus,  of  Thy  right  in  my 
soul,  which  Thou  hast  redeemed  with  Thy  most  pre- 
cious blood,  and  root  out  all  self-righteousness,  self- 
interest,  and  self-will ; — that  Thou  mayest  be  my 
righteousness,  and  all  in  me, 

REPENTANCE. 

Give  me,  O  God,  such  a  true  sorrow  for  my  sins, 
as  shall    enable  me  to  embrace   all   the   necessary 

*  1  Thess.  V.  15. 

b 0 


o — o 

42  SACRA    PRIVATA, 

means,  how  bitter  soever,  for  rooting  sin  out  of  my 
soul, 

HUMILITY. 

"God  resisteth  the  proud,  and  giveth  grace  to 
the  humble." — 1  Peter  v.  5. 

I  have  all  the  reason  in  the  world  to  be  humble. 
Without  God  I  am  nothing.  Without  His  help  and 
grace,  I  can  do  nothing  that  is  good.  Without  His 
word,  I  know  nothing.  Of  myself,  I  deserve  nothing 
but  punishment.  Of  my  own,  I  have  nothing  but 
faults,  imperfections,  and  sins,  an  inclination  to  evil, 
an  aversion  to  good,  unruly  senses,  ungovernable 
passions,  unreasonable  affections. 

O  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  who  art  made  unto  us  of 
God,  our  wisdom,  by  revealing  Him  and  His  glori- 
ous perfections  ;  our  righteousness,  by  satisfying  the 
justice  of  God  in  our  nature  ;  our  sanctification,  by 
procuring  for  us  the  Holy  Ghost,  and  by  restoring 
us,  being  sinners  to  God's  favour  ;  our  redemption, 
by  redeeming  us  from  death  eternal,  O  Jesus,  for 
these  mighty  favours,  all  love  and  glory  be  to  Thee, 
with  the  Father  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  for  ever.  Ameu. 
1  Cor.  i.  30- 

THE  WAY  OF  A  HAPPY  LIFE. 

Lay  nothing  too  much  to  heart ;  desire  nothing 
too  eagerly  ;  rejoice  not  excessively,  nor  grieve  too 
much  for  disasters  ;  be  not  violently  bent  on  any  de- 
sign ;    nor  let   any  worldly  cares   hinder  you   from 

0 


Q O 

SACRA    PRIVATA.  43 

taking  care  of  your  soul ;  and  remember,  that  it  is 
necessary  to  be  a  Christian  (that  is,  to  govern  one's 
self  by  motives  of  Christianity)  in  the  most  common 
actions  of  civil  life. 

"  Whatsoever  ye  do  in  vv^ord  or  in  deed,  do  all 
in  the  name  of  the  Lord  Jesus,  giving  thanks  to  God 
and  the  Father  by  him." — Col.  iii.  17. 

He  that  w^ould  not  fall  into  temptation,  must  have 
a  presence  of  mind,  a  watchful  eye  over  himself;  he 
must  have  great  things  in  view,  distinguish  betwixt 
time  and  eternity,  or  else  he  will  follow  what  passion, 
not  what  reason  and  religion,  suggest. 

CHRISTIAN   PERFECTION. 

Whoever  aspires  after,  (that  is,  in  being  so  united 
to  God  as  to  be  one  spirit  with  him,)  must  resolve  to 
do  all  things  with  this  sole  view,  to  please  God.  This 
I  purpose,  this  I  forbear,  this  I  undertake,  this  I  do, 
this  I  suffer,  in  obedience  to  the  will  of  God ;  and 
because  I  believe  it  will  be  for  His  glory.  This 
should  be  our  express  purpose,  at  all  times,  when  we 
have  time  to  make  it ;  and  should  be  often  renewed, 
lest  our  own  will  come  to  be  the  rule  of  our  actions. 
If  I  am  careful  to  do  this,  I  shall  always  have  my 
end,  whether  I  succeed  or  be  disappointed,  being 
convinced  it  is  God's  will. 

"  Put  ye  on  the  Lord  Jesus,  and  make  not  pro- 
vision for  the  flesh,  to  fulfil  the  lusts  thereof" — 
Romans  xvi,  14. 

Grant,  O  Lord,  that  "  I  may  keep  under  my  body, 

O 


o O 

44  SACRA   PRIVATA. 

and  bring  it  into  subjection,  lest  by  any  means, 
[when  I  have  preached  to  others]  I  myself  should  be 
a  castaway,"* 

"  Be  ye  all  of  one  mind,  having  compassion  one 
of  another  ;  be  pitiful,  be  courteous  :  not  rendering 
evil  for  evil,  nor  railing  for  railing,  but  contrariwise 
blessing.  For  he  that  will  love  life,  and  see  good 
days,  let  him  refrain  his  tongue  from  evil,  and  his 
lips  that  they  speak  no  guile.  Let  him  eschew  evil, 
and  do  good  ;  let  him  seek  peace,  and  ensue  it." — 
1  Peter  iii.  8 — 11. 

Give  me,  O  Lord,  a  wise,  a  sober,  a  serious,  a 
religious  heart,  [that  I  may  do  Thee  honour  in  a 
faithful  discharge  of  the  duties  of  my  calling. 

Give  me  true  Christian  courage,  that  I  may  never 
faint  in  the  way  of  my  duty.] 

Preserve  me  from  evil  counsels  and  rash  enter- 
prises.    O  make  Thy  way  plain  before  my  face. 

Support  me  this  day  under  all  the  difficulties  I 
shall  meet  with. 

I  offer  myself  to  Thee,  O  God,  this  day,  to  do 
in  me,  and  with  me,  as  to  Thee  seems  most  meet. 

Vouchsafe  me,  gracious  God,  the  spirit  of  adop- 
tion, whereby  I  may  cry,  Abba,  Father,  and  apply  to 
Thee,  through  Jesus  Christ,  not  as  an  angry  judge, 
but  as  to  a  merciful  and  loving  father. 

Remember,  that  the  life  of  man  is  only  to  be 
valued  for  its  usefulness. 

["  Enter  ye  in  at  the  strait  gate;  for  wide  is  the 
gate,  and  broad  is  the  way,  that  leadeth  to  destruc- 

*  ]  Corinthians  ix.  27. 

O 6 


-o 


SACRA    PRIVATA.  45 

tion,  and  many  there  be  which  go  in  thereat ;  be- 
cause strait  is  the  gate,  and  narrow  is  the  way,  which 
leadeth  unto  life,  and  few  there  be  that  find  it." — 
Matthew  vii.  13,  14. 

Grant,  O  Jesus,  that  I  may  never  flatter  myself 
or  others  on  this  subject.] 

"  This  is  my  commandment,  that  ye  love  one 
another." — John  xv.  12. 

O  Thou,  who  hast  given  me  this  command  and 
pattern,  give  me  a  sincere  desire  of  following,  and 
grace  and  power  to  do  it. 

"  And  the  prayer  of  faith  shall  save  the  sick  ; 
and  the  Lord  shall  raise  him  up ;  and  if  he  have 
committed  sins,  (^acps&ijcrsxaL  amoji,)  he  shall  be  ab- 
solved," i.  e.  upon  his  confession. — James  v.  15. 

O  Lord  of  life  and  death  !  have  mercy  upon  all 
those  who  are  visited  with  sickness  ;  sanctify  this 
Thy  fatherly  correction,  that  they  may  search  their 
ways,  and  see  whence  this  visitation  cometh.  Have 
mercy  upon  all  that  are  appointed  to  die,  and  grant 
that  they  omit  nothing  that  is  necessary  to  make 
their  peace  with  Thee,  and  that  they  may  be  deliver- 
ed from  death  eternal.  And  God  grant  that  we  may 
apply  our  hearts  to  that  holy  and  heavenly  wisdom, 
while  we  live  here,  which  may  in  the  end  bring  us 
to  life  everlasting,  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord. 
Amen. 


-C 


o— — ^o 

46  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

NOON. 

"  I  exhort,  that  first  of  all,  supplications,  prayers, 
intercessions,  and  giving  of  thanks,  be  made  for  all 
men." — 1  Timothy  ii.  1. 

"  For  we  are  all  of  one  blood." — Acts  xvii.  26. 

And  charity,  that  more  excellent  way,  is  a  ten- 
der affection  for  the  whole  creation  of  God. 

[To  promote  the  kingdom  of  God,  is  to  increase 
and  hasten  one's  own  happiness. 

That  "  man  is  born  to  trouble,"  I  see  wherever 
I  turn  my  eyes.  I  know  what  pain  is  by  experience ; 
and  though  I  was  never  in  want,  yet,  from  the  com- 
plaints of  others,  I  see  it  is  grievous,  and  fit  are  those 
things  to  be  laid  before  the  throne  of  grace. 

And  since  many  have  desired  my  prayers,  and 
others  have  been  my  benefactors,  and  do  constantly 
pray  for  me,  I  should  not  neglect  to  pray  for  them. 

There  are  also  many  who  cannot,  and  many  who 
forget  to  pray  for  themselves,  for  whom  charity  should 
oblige  one  to  pray. 

And  I  should  by  no  means  forget  the  place  of  my 
birth,  education,  and  preferment,  that  I  may  be  some 
way  useful  to  them,  at  least  desire  that  God  will  ac- 
cept my  prayers  for  them.] 

O  God,  almighty  and  merciful,  let  Thy  fatherly 
kindness  be  upon  all  whom  Thou  hast  made.  Hear 
the  prayers  of  all  that  call  upon  Thee ;  open  the 
eyes  of  them  that  never  pray  for  themselves  :  pity 
the  sighs  of  such  as  are  in  misery  :  deal  mercifully 


o ■ o 

SACRA    PRIVATA.  47 

with  them  that  are  in  darkness,  and  increase  the 
number  of  the  graces  of  such  as  fear  and  serve  Thee 
daily.  Preserve  this  land  from  the  misfortunes  of 
war ;  this  church  from  all  dangerous  errors ;  this 
people  from  forgetting  Thee,  their  Lord  and  Bene- 
factor. Be  gracious  to  all  those  countries  that  are 
made  desolate  by  the  sword,  famine,  pestilence,  or 
persecution.  Bless  all  persons  and  places  to  which 
Thy  providence  has  made  me  a  debtor  ;  all  who  have 
been  instrumental  to  my  good  by  their  assistance, 
advice,  example,  or  writings.  And  make  me  in  my 
turn  useful  to  others.  Let  none  of  those  that  desire 
my  prayers  want  Thy  mercy,  but  defend,  and  com- 
fort, and  conduct  them  through  to  their  lives'  end. 

"  In  every  thing  give  thanks ;  for  this  is  the 
will  of  God  in  Christ  Jesus  concerning  you." — 1 
Thess.  V.  18. 

[special    FAVOURS. 

That  I  was  born  of  honest  and  religious  parents, 
and  in  a  Christian  and  Protestant  country. 

That  I  had  an  early  right  to  the  covenant  of 
gtace. 

That  I  had  an  education  and  preferment  beyond 
the  abilities  of  my  father's  house. 

That  I  had  the  advantage  of  honourable  and 
worthy  friends ;  an  excellent  wife,  and  four  lovely 
children. 

EXTRAORDINARY    DELIVERANCES. 

From  dangerous  wounds  I  received  in  my  head 
and  thigh,  when  a  child ; 

O 0 


o- 


48  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

From  gunpowder  ; 

From  fire  ; 

From  the  dangers  of  the  sea. 


MERCIFUL    VISITATIONS    AND    CHASTISEMENTS. 

A  fever  in  1693. 

A  long  indisposition,  of  which  I  recovered  in  1698. 

The  loss  of  three  children,  at  such  a  time  as 
evidently  showed  the  reason  of  the  visitation. 

The  loss  of  my  dearest  wife,  with  a  very  peculiar 
circumstance  at  the  funeral,  which  showed  at  once 
the  love  and  the  justice  of  God.] 

Cause  us,  O  God,  to  profit  by  all  the  visitations 
of  Thy  grace  and  mercy. 

It  becometh  well  the  just  to  be  thankful. 

O  Lord  and  Father,  I  am  not  worthy  of  the  least 
of  all  Thy  mercies,  which  Thou  hast  showed  Thy 
servant,  neither  can  I  render  due  thanks  and  praise 
for  them  ;  but,  O  Lord,  accept  of  this  my  sacrifice 
of  praise  and  thanksgiving. 

For  all  the  known,  and  for  all  the  unobserved 
favours,  deliverances,  visitations,  opportunities  of 
doing  good,  chastisements,  and  graces  of  Thy  Holy 
Spirit,  vouchsafed  to  myself  and  to  my  family,  I  bless 
Thy  holy  providence  ;  beseeching  Thee  to  pardon 
my  ingratitude,  that  I  have  passed  so  many  days  and 
years  without  observing  and  without  acknowledging 
Thy  great  goodness  to  Thy  unworthy  servant. 

For  when  I  soberly  consider  my  dependence  upon 
Thee,  for  my  life,  welfare,  health  of  body,  peace  of 

O O 


o- 


SACRA    PRIVATA.  49 

mind,  grace,  comfort,  and  salvation,  I  ought  to  be 
very  thankful. 

Glory  be  to  God,  my  Creator  ;  glory  be  to  Jesus, 
my  Redeemer ;  glory  be  to  the  Holy  Ghost,  my 
Sanctiher,  my  Guide,  and  Comforter  : — All  love,  all 
glory,  be  to  God  most  high.     Amen. 

Let  us  never  ascribe  any  thing  to  ourselves,  but 
all  to  the  grace  of  God,  and  render  to  Him  all  the 
glory  of  His  works. 

Preserve  me,  O  God,  from  the  insensibility  of 
those  who  receive  Thy  favours  without  being  affected 
with  them,  and  from  the  ingratitude  of  those  who 
look  upon  them  as  a  debt. 

"  It  is  a  good  thing  to  give  thanks  unto  the  Lord ; 
and  to  sing  praises  unto  Thy  name,  O  Most  High ! 
To  show  forth  Thy  loving-kindness  in  the  morning, 
and  Thy  faithfulness  every  night." — Psalm  xcii.  1,  2. 

Many  and  great  have  been  the  favours  and  bless- 
ings which  Thou  hast  bestowed  upon  these  nations  ; 
for  which,  O  Lord,  in  conjunction  with  those  who 
praise  Thee  for  them,  and  in  the  stead  of  those  who 
forget  to  praise  Thee,  I  bless  and  praise  Thy  holy 
name. 

"  Bless  the  Lord,  O  my  soul,  and  forget  not  all 
His  benefits." 

OUR    FATHER,    WHICH    ART    IN    HEAVEN  ; 

"  In  thee  we  live,  and  move,  and  have  our  be- 
ing."— Acts  xvii.  28. 

Grant,  O  Father,  that  all  Christians  may  live 
worthy  of  this  glorious  relation. 


6- 


Q 0 

50  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

O  that  we  may  not  sin,  knowing  that  we  are  ac- 
counted Thy  children.* 

Grant  that  we  may  love  Thee  with  all  our  heart, 
and  mind,  and  soul,  and  strength. 

Blessed  be  God,  who  dealeth  with  us  with  the 
tenderness  of  a  father. 

0  that  we  may  remember  that  our  Father  and 
our  inheritance  is  in  heaven. 

1  commit  myself,  and  all  that  belongs  to  me,  to 
Thy  fatherly  care  and  love. 

Verily,  whatever  ye  ask  the  Father  in  My  name, 
He  will  give  it  you.t  This  is  the  great  support  and 
comfort  of  sinners.  Hear  us,  for  Thy  Son's  sake  ; 
for  as  sinners,  we  have  no  right  to  ask  any  favour. 

What  manner  of  love  is  it,  that  we  should  be 
called  the  sons  of  God  ?| 

HALLOWED    BE    THY    NAME. 

*'  Thou  art  worthy,  O  Lord,  to  receive  honour, 
and  power,  and  glory ;  for  Thou  hast  created  all 
things." 

*'  In  this  is  my  Father  glorified,  that  ye  bring 
forth  much  fruit." 

May  Thy  children  have  a  great  regard  for  every 
thing  that  belongs  to  Thee. 

May  I  never  dishonour  Thee,  O  heavenly  Father, 
by  word  or  deed. 

May  I  glorify  Thee  daily  by  a  good  life.  Fill 
my  heart  with  a  great  concern  and  zeal  for  Thy 
glory. 

*  Wisdom  XV.  f  John  xvi.  23.  J  1  John  iii.  1. 


I 


-o 


?- 


o 


SACRA    PRIVATA.  51 

"  Let   every  thing  that   hath   breath  praise  the 

Lord." 

"  They  that  honour  me,  I  will  also  honour." 
How  little  have  I  done  to  promote  Thy  glory  ! 

God  be  merciful  unto  me. 
« 

THY    KINGDOM    COME. 

May  all  the  kingdoms  of  the  world  obey  Thy 
laws,  and  submit  to  Thy  providence,  and  become  the 
kingdoms  of  the  Lord,  and  of  His  Christ ! 

May  all  that  own  Thee  for  their  King,  become 
Thy  faithful  subjects ! 

Bless  the  pious  endeavours  of  all  those  that  strive 
to  propagate  the  gospel  of  Thy  Kingdom. 

Vouchsafe  to  reign  in  my  heart ;  and  let  not 
Satan  ever  have  dominion  over  me. 

Fit  us,  O  God,  for  the  coming  of  Thy  kingdom. 
May  I  submit  and  rejoice  to  be  governed  by  Thee. 

O  that  Thy  Holy  Spirit  may  direct  and  rule  my 
heart;  subdue  in  me  all  pride  and  covetousness, 
hatred,  malice,  envy,  lust,  and  all  uncleanness,  and 
whatever  shall  offend  Thee. 

THY   WILL   BE    DONE   IN   EARTH   AS    IT   IS    IN   HEAVEN. 

*'  This  is  the  will  of  God,  even  your  sanctifica- 
tion." — 1  Thessalonians  iv.  3. 

Thou  hast  sent  us  into  the  world,  not  to  do  our 
own  will,  but  Thine. 

May  Thy  name  be  honoured  by  the  good  lives  of 
Christians. 

6 6 


6 


52  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

O  that  I  may  have  respect  unto  all  Thy  com- 
mands. 

May  Thy  will,  revealed  to  us  in  Thy  holy  Word, 
be  the  rule  of  my  will,  of  my  desires,  of  my  words, 
life,  and  actions. 


GIVE    us    THIS    DAY    OUR    DAILY    BREAD. 

''  Labour  not  for  the  meat  which  perisheth,  but 
for  that  meat  which  endureth  unto  everlasting  life." 
— John  vi.  27. 

Give  us  the  bread  which  came  down  from  heaven, 
and  giveth  life  unto  the  world. 

Lord,  give  us  evermore  this  bread.  May  we 
never  deprive  ourselves  of  this  food,  which  will  pre- 
serve our  souls  from  death,  and  restore  life  unto  our 
bodies. 


AND     FORGIVE    US     OUR    TRESPASSES    AS    WE    FORGIVE 
THEM    THAT    TRESPASS    AGAINST    US. 

"  Forgive,  and  ye  shall  be  forgiven." — Luke  vi. 
37. 

Grant,  O  heavenly  Father,  that  I  may  close  with 
this  merciful  condition  of  pardon. 

Thou  hast  been  all  mercy  to  me,  O  God,  grant 
that  I  may  be  so  to  all  others. 

Blessed  be  the  Lord,  who  has  put  our  salvation 
into  our  own  hands.  May  Thy  grace,  O  Father, 
give  me  a  heart  ever  ready  to  forgive  !  I 


o- 


SACRA    PRIVATA.  53 


AND    LEAD    US    NOT    INTO    TEMPTATION. 

"  Let  him  that  thinketh  he  standeth  (firm),  take 
heed  lest  he  fall. — 1  Corinthians  x.  13. 

Let  not  any  confidence  in  ourselves  provoke  Thee, 
O  God,  to  leave  us  to  ourselves. 

"  The  Lord  knoweth  how  to  deliver  the  godly  out 
of  temptation." — 2  Peter  ii.  9. 

Thou,  O  Father,  knowest  my  infirmities,  and  the 
power  of  my  enemies ;  be  not  wanting  to  me  in  the 
hour  of  temptation. 

"  Watch  and  pray,  that  ye  enter  not  into  tempta- 
tion."— Matthew  xxvi.  4L 

Make  me  mindful  of  my  weakness,  that  I  may  be 
more  watchful  and  importunate  for  grace. 

Fortify  my  soul  against  the  temptations  of  the 
world,  the  flesh,  and  the  devil,  for  Jesus  Christ's  sake. 


BUT    DELIVER    US    FROM    EVIL. 

"  Be  sober,  be  vigilant,  because  your  adversary 
the  devil,  as  a  roaring  lion,  walketh  about  seeking 
whom  he  may  devour." — 1  Peter  v.  8. 

Grant,  O  heavenly  Father,  that  this  adversary 
may  never  find  me  off"  my  guard,  or  from  under  Thy 
protection. 

In  all  my  saving  trials,  give  me  grace  and  power 
to  overcome,  to  Thy  glory. 


-O 


o 

54  SACRA    PRIVATA. 


FOR   THINE    IS    THE    KINGDOM,   THE    POWER,   AND   THE 
GLORY,    FOR    EVER    AND    EVER.       AMEN. 

To  Thee,  to  Thee  alone,  and  to  Thy  Son,  and 
Holy  Spirit,  be  glory  for  ever  and  ever.     Amen. 


EVENING. 

"  Let  my  prayer  be  set  forth  in  Thy  sight  as  the 
incense ;  and  let  the  lifting  up  of  my  hands  be  as  an 
evening  sacrifice." — Psalm  cxli.  2. 

That  it  hath  pleased  God  to  add  another  day  to 
the  years  of  my  life  ;  that  none  of  his  judgments,  to 
which  for  my  sins  I  am  justly  liable,  have  fallen  upon 
me ;  that  by  His  grace  He  hath  kept  me  from  all 
scandalous  sins,  and  from  the  dangers  of  an  evil 
world ;  that  He  has  given  me  occasions  of  doing 
good,  and  grace  to  make  use  of  them ;  that  He  hath 
supplied  me  and  my  family  with  the  necessaries  of 
this  life,  and  with  means  of  attaining  a  better  : — 

Accept,  O  God,  of  my  unfeigned  thanks  for 
these,  and  for  all  Thy  mercies  from  day  to  day  be- 
stowed upon  me.  Add  this  to  all  Thy  favours,  I  be- 
seech Thee,  that  I  may  never  forget  to  be  thankful. 

Possess  my  heart  with  such  a  deep  sense  of  my 
obligations  to,  and  dependence  upon  Thee,  for  life, 
and  health,  and  grace,  and  salvation,  that  religion 
may  be  my  delight  as  well  as  my  duty. 

But  that  I  may  serve  Thee  with  a  quiet  mind, 

6  O 


Q O 

SACRA    PRIVATA.  55 

forgive  me  the  things  whereof  my  conscience  is  afraid, 
and  avert  the  judgments  which  I  have  justly  deserved. 
Remember  not  the  offences  of  my  youth ;  and  in  mer- 
cy blot  out  those  of  my  riper  years.  Pardon  my  sins 
of  the  day  past,  and  of  my  life  past,  and  grant  that  they 
may  never  rise  up  in  judgment  against  me.     Amen. 

''  If  any  man  sin,  we  have  an  Advocate  with  the 
Father,  Jesus  Christ  the  righteous,  and  He  is  the 
propitiation  for  our  sins." — 1  John  ii.  1. 

O  most  powerful  Advocate,  I  put  my  cause  into 
Thy  hands ;  let  Thy  blood  and  merits  plead  for  me, 
and  by  Thy  mighty  intercession  procure  for  me  a  full 
discharge  of  all  my  sins. 

"  Sin  no  more,  lest  a  worse  thing  come  unto 
thee." — John  v.  14. 

Lord,  the  frailty  of  man  without  Thee  cannot  but 
fall.  In  all  temptations,  therefore,  I  beseech  Thee  to 
succour  me,  that  no  sin  may  ever  get  the  dominion 
over  me. 

["Pass  the  time  of  your  sojourning  here  in  fear." 
—1  Peter  i.  7. 

May  God  give  me  a  salutary  dread  of  the  unfaith- 
fulness of  my  own  heart ;  and  while  my  duty  obliges 
me  to  promote  the  salvation  of  others,  make  me 
always  consider  my  own  frailty  and  fear  for  myself 

"  As  my  Father  hath  sent  me,  even  so  send  I 
you." — John  xx.  21. 

O  my  Saviour  ?  I  acknowledge  Thy  goodness  in 
appointing  unworthy  me  a  successor  of  Thy  Apostles, 
Cause  me  thoroughly  to  weigh  the  sanctity  of  my 
calling,  and  to  discharge  it  faithfully. 

— — 6 


o o 

56  SACRA   PRIVATA. 

/  have  given  you  an  example. 

Yes,  my  Lord  and  Master,  but  I  am  ashamed 
when  I  consider  how  far  I  come  short  of  this  exam- 
ple ;  how  poor  my  pains  have  been ;  how  little  of  my 
time,  my  labour,  my  care,  my  thoughts,  have  been 
spent  in  Thy  service. 

O  Lord,  pardon  what  is  past,  and  give  me  grace 
to  study  Thy  spirit  and  conduct,  and  follow  them 
more  faithfully  for  the  time  to  come. 

"  My  sheep  hear  My  voice ;  and  I  know  them,  and 
they  follow  Me."— John  x.  27. 

And  may  I,  O  Sovereign  Pastor,  always  so  speak, 
as  that  my  flock  may  hear  and  understand  me ;  so 
converse  with  them,  as  that  I  may  know  them ;  and 
lead  such  a  life,  as  that  they  may  safely  follow  me. 

"  Take  heed  unto  thyself,  and  to  thy  doctrine  ;  in 
so  doing,  thou  shalt  both  save  thyself  and  them  that 
hear  thee." — 1  Timothy  iv.  16. 

Amen. — The  good  Lord  grant  that  I  may  edify 
the  Church  both  by  my  life  and  doctrine ;  that  I  may 
faithfully  teach  the  mysteries,  defend  the  faith,  and 
maintain  the  truths  of  the  Gospel. 

"  In  meekness  instructing  those  that  oppose  them- 
selves."— 2  Timothy  ii.  25. 

O  Jesu,  impart  to  me  a  portion  of  that  Spirit 
which  prevailed  with  Thee  to  preach  to  a  people  who 
regarded  Thee  not,  who  rejected,  who  crucified  Thee. 
Make  me  always  sensible  of  my  own  infirmities,  that 
I  may  treat  others  with  compassion. 

-6 


o 9 

SACRA    PRIVATA.  57 

O  God,  engrave  this  truth  upon  my  heart,  that 
every  moment  of  my  life  belongs  to  Thee.  That  I 
may  preach  Thy  Word;  and  may  my  prayers  be 
evermore  acceptable  in  Thy  sight,  O  Lord,  my 
strength  and  my  Redeemer  ! 

"  When  I  sent  you  without  purse,  and  scrip,  and 
shoes,  lacked  ye  any  thing?" — Luke  xxii.  35. 

O  bountiful  Lord  and  Master !  Who  hast  pre- 
vented all  my  wants  and  necessities  to  this  day,  grant 
that  no  anxious  thoughts  and  fears  for  the  future,  no 
spirit  of  infidelity,  may  ever  tempt  me  to  distrust  Thy 
providence,  or  to  better  or  secure  my  condition  by 
any  unworthy  means. 

"  Remember  the  word  that  I  said  unto  you  ;  the 
servant  is  not  greater  than  his  lord." — John  xv.  20. 

My  Lord  and  Master,  may  I  never  forget  this 
truth,  and  then  I  shall  never  fear,  never  complain  of 
injuries,  evil  treatment,  or  afflictions. 

"  They  watch  for  your  souls,  as  they  that  must 
give  account." — Hebrews  xiii.  17. 

We  cannot  answer  for  ourselves,  and  yet  we  stand 
charged  and  are  accountable  for  others.  Who  can 
think  of  this  without  trembling  ?  In  mercy,  O  God, 
communicate  to  me  a  degree  of  grace,  and  a  zeal 
answerable  to  the  work  I  have  undertaken,  and  the 
account  I  am  to  give. 

"  Blessed  are  those  servants,  whom  the  Lord  when 
he  Cometh  shall  find  watching." — Luke  xii.  37. 

The  good  Lord  grant  that  I  may  be  ever  watchful 

in  the  way  of  my  duty,  and  faithful  in  performing  it. 

That  I  may  live  in  the  daily  expectation  of  my  Lord's 

3* 
O O 


o- — — o 

58  SACRA    PRIVATA, 

coming;  and  that  when  I  die,  I  may  be  made  par- 
taker of  that  blessedness  which  God  hath  promised 
His  faithful  servants.] 

''  Whoso  dwelleth  under  the  defence  of  the  Most 
High,  shall  abide  under  the  shadow  of  the  Almighty." 
— Psalm  xci.  1. 

May  the  Almighty  God  take  me,  my  family,  my 
friends,  my  relations,  my  benefactors,  and  my  ene- 
mies, under  His  gracious  protection  ;  give  His  holy 
angels  charge  concerning  us ;  preserve  us  from  the 
prince  and  powers  of  darkness,  and  from  the  dangers 
of  the  night ;  and  keep  us  in  perpetual  peace  and 
safety  ;  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 

Hear  me,  O  God,  not  according  to  my  weak  un- 
derstanding, but  according  to  the  full  importance  of 
that  holy  prayer,  which  Jesus  Christ  has  taught  us, 
and  which  I  presume  to  offer  : — 

Our  Father,  which  art  in  Heaven,  &C. 


OUR     FATHER,    WHICH     ART    IN     HEAVEN  ;     HALLOWED 
BE    THY    NAME. 

God  will  be  glorified  in  the  salvation  of  souls. 

If  the  Almighty  God  were  not  my  Father,  I  might 
expect  vengeance  instead  of  mercy. 

May  I  glorify  Thee  in  a  faithful  discharge  of  the 
duties  of  my  calling. 

]May  I  show  by  my  life  that  God  is  my  Father. 

O — — <b 


— o 

SACRA    PRIVA.TA.  59     | 

This  earth  is  not  the  inheritance  of  the  children 

of  God. 

Blessed  be  God,  who  dealeth  not  with  us  with  the 

authority  of  a  lord  over  his  servants,  but  with  the 

tenderness  of  a  father  over  his  children. 

THY    KINGDOM    COME. 

Establish  Thy  kingdom  in  my  heart,  O  God.  I 
own  Thee  for  my  King ;  do  Thou  make  and  own  me 
for  Thy  faithful  subject.  Enlarge  Thy  kingdom,  for 
the  honour  of  Thy  great  name.  May  1  preserve  Thy 
kingdom  within  me,  the  government  of  Thy  Spirit. 
Bring  me  into  subjection  to  Thyself,  by  Thy  grace. 

THY   WILL    BE   DONE    IN    EARTH,   AS    IT   IS   IN    HEAVEN. 

That  Thou  mayest  have  a  Church  on  earth  as 
obedient  to  Thy  will  as  that  is  in  heaven. 

A  Christian  prayer  is  always  answered,  because 
nothing  is  asked  but  that  God's  will  be  done. 

O  heavenly  Father,  subdue  in  me  whatever  is 
contrary  to  Thy  holy  will.  Grant  that  I  may  ever 
study  to  know  Thy  will,  that  I  may  know  how  to 
please  Thee. 

Thy  will,  O  God,  is  the  perfection  of  justice  ;  let 
me  never  prescribe  to  Thee  what  Thou  oughtest  to 
give  me.  What  Thou  doest  will,  we  may  be  sure, 
be  best  for  us ;  we  cannot  be  sure  of  what  we  will 
for  ourselves.  Hearken  not  to  the  corrupt  desires  of 
my  heart,  but  to  the  voice  of  Thy  own  mercy. 

O O 


O— Q 

60  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

GIVE    US    THIS    DAY    OUR    DAILY    BREAD. 

Yes,  my  God,  I  will  have  recourse  to  Thee  daily  ; 
for  on  Thee  I  depend  daily  for  life,  and  breath,  and 
grace,  and  all  things. 

Give  me  a  true  understanding  of,  and  love  for. 
Thy  Word,  the  bread  which  nourisheth  to  eternal 
life. 

For  Thou,  O  Lord,  hast  taught  us  not  to  seek  that 
bread  which  perisheth,  but  that  which  endureth  to 
eternal  life.* 

AND    FORGIVE    US    OUR    TRESPASSES    AS    WE    FORGIVE 
THEM    THAT    TRESPASS    AGAINST    US. 

May  I  ever  show  mercy  to  men,  that  I  may  re- 
ceive it  from  Thee,  my  God. 

Do  I  value  my  soul,  and  think  this  too  hard  a  con- 
dition ? 

May  I  never  pray  with  a  spirit  of  malice  or  re- 
venge, lest  I  obtain  nothing  but  mine  own  condem- 
nation. 

Thou  art  all  mercy  to  me ;  grant  that  I  may  be 
all  mercy  to  my  brethren,  for  Thy  sake,  O  Father. 

AND  LEAD  US  NOT  INTO  TEMPTATION,  BUT  DELIVER 
us  FROM  EVIL. 

For  Thou  knowest  our  infirmities,  and  the  power 
and  malice  of  our  enemies. 

•  John  vi.  27. 

6 — o 


o — o 

SACRA    PRIVATA.  61 

Thou  knowest  how  to  deliver  the  godly  out  of 
temptation.* 

Grant,  O  God,  that  I  may  never  run  into  those 
temptations,  which  in  my  prayers  I  desire  to  avoid  ! 

Vouchsafe  me  the  gift  of  perseverance,  on  which 
my  eternal  happiness  depends. 

Lord,  never  permit  my  trials  to  be  above  my 
strength. 

O  Holy  Spirit  of  grace,  be  not  wanting  to  me  in 
the  hour  of  temptation.  And  in  all  temptations,  give 
us  power  to  resist  and  overcome.  Leave  us  not  in 
the  power  of  evil  spirits  to  ruin  us.  Support  us  un- 
der all  our  saving  trials  and  troubles. 

FOR   THINE    IS   THE    KINGDOM,  THE    POWER,    AND    THE 
GLORY,    FOR    EVER   AND   EVER.       AMEN. 

Let  Thy  Fatherly  compassion  grant  what  the  Son 
of  Thy  love  has  encouraged  us  to  pray  for. 

By  Thy  Almighty  power  make  good  whatever  is 
defective  in  me. 

EXAMINATION. 

''  Before  judgment,  examine  thyself;  and  in  the 
day  of  visitation  thou  shalt  find  mercy." — Ecclesias- 
ticus  xviii.  20. 

Discover  to  me,  O  Thou  searcher  of  hearts,  what- 
ever is  amiss  in  me,  whether  life  or  principle. 

*  2  Peter  ii.  9. 
C O 


o o 

62  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

"  If  our  heart  condemn  us  not,  then  have  we  con- 
fidence towards  God." — 1  John  iii.  20. 

''  Whosoever  is  born  of  God  doth  not  commit  sin 
(so  as  to  be  a  servant  of  sin*).  In  this  the  children 
of  God  are  manifest,  and  the  children  of  the  devil." 
—1  John  iii.  9,  10. 

"  I  will  hear  what  the  Lord  God  will  say  concern- 
ing me." — Habakkuk  ii.  1. 

"  If  thou  doest  well,  shalt  thou  not  be  accepted  ? 
If  thou  doest  not  well,  sin  lieth  at  the  door." — Gene- 
sis iv.  7. 

["  We  will  give  ourselves  over  continually  unto 
the  ministry  of  the  word,  and  to  prayer." — Acts  vi.  4. 

Have  I  done  so  this  day  ? 

Have  I  been  mindful  of  the  duties  of  my  proper 
calling  ? 

Do  I  make  it  the  great  concern  of  my  life  to  pro- 
mote the  eternal  interest  of  my  flock  ? 

Have  I  read  the  Holy  Scriptures,  in  order  to  in- 
struct my  people,  and  to  preserve  them  from  error  1 

Do  I  call  upon  God  for  the  true  understanding  of 
the  Holy  Scriptures  1 

Do  I  deny  all  ungodliness  and  worldly  lusts,  so  as 
to  be  an  example  unto  others  ? 

Have  I  endeavoured  to  keep  up  the  discipline  of 
this  church,  by  correcting  the  criminous  ? 

Have  I  an  eye  to  such  as  are  in  holy  orders,  and 
to  such  as  are  designed  for  the  ministry  ? 

*  John  viii.  34. 

o ■ 0 


-o 

SACRA    PRIVATA.  63 

Have  I  been  charitable  and  kind  to  poor  and 
needy  people  1 

Do  I  make  the  Gospel  the  rule  of  my  private  life, 
and  Jesus  Christ  my  pattern  ? 

Do  I  endeavour  after  holiness  ? 

Do  I  live  as  in  God's  presence? 

Is  my  conversation  unblamable? 

Do  I  give  the  praise  of  this  to  God,  through  Jesus 
Christ  ?] 


DEATH. 

From  sudden,  from  unprepared  death,  good  Lord 
deliver  me,  my  children,  and  family,  and  all  that 
desire  my  prayers.  May  we  never  be  surprised  in 
sin ;  and  may  Thy  mercy  supply  whatever  shall  be 
wanting  in  our  preparation  for  death. 

For  myself,  with  the  submission  of  a  penitent  sin- 
ner, under  the  righteous  sentence  of  death  passed 
upon  all  mankind,  I  beg  that  I  may  so  live,  as  that  I 
may  with  joy  resign  my  life  a  sacrifice  of  obedience, 
in  union  with  that  of  my  Saviour's,  to  Thee,  O 
Father,  trusting  in  Thy  mercy  and  goodness,  and 
promises  in  Jesus  Christ,  at  the  hour  of  death,  and 
in  the  day  of  judgment.     Amen. 

"  Let  not  the  sun  go  down  upon  your  wrath." — 
Ephesians  iv.  6. 

Lord,  grant  that  I  may  lie  down  to  sleep  with  the 
same  charitable  dispositions  with  which  I  desire  and 
hope  to  die. 

(^ O 


o- 


64 


SACRA    PRIVATA. 


I  beseech  Thee  for  all  that  are  my  enemies,  not 
for  judgment  and  vengeance,  but  for  mercy,  for  the 
remission  of  their  sins,  and  for  their  eternal  happi- 
ness. 

"  Lighten  mine  eyes,  O  Lord,  that  I  sleep  not  in 
death." — Psalm  xiii.  3. 

Deliver  me  from  the  terrors  of  the  night,  and  from 
the  pestilence  that  walketh  in  darkness.* 

Let  my  sleep  be  free  from  sin ;  preserve  me,  O 
Lord,  from  evil  dreams  and  evil  demons. 

Into  Thy  hands  I  commend  myself,  my  spirit,  my 
soul,  and  body,  O  Lord,  thou  God  of  truth. 

Grant  that  I  may  remember  Thee  upon  my  bed. 

"  I  will  lay  me  down  in  peace,  and  take  my  rest  ; 
for  it  is  Thou,  Lord,  only  that  makest  me  dwell  in 
safety." — Psalm  iv.  9. 

May  the  Saviour  and  Guardian  of  my  soul  take 
me  under  His  protection  this  night  and  evermore  ! 


*  Psalm  xci. 


6- 


o- 


-Q 


SUIMY    MEDITATIOIS. 


EPISCOPACY.* 


Question  from  the  Office  of  Consecration. — Are  you  persuaded  that  you  be 
truly  called  to  this  ministration,  according  to  the  will  of  our  Lord  Jesus 
Christ,  and  the  order  of  this  realm  ? 

.Answer. — I  am  so  persuaded. 


Almighty  God,  who  by  Thy  providence  hast 
brought  me  into  Thine  immediate  service,  accept  of 
my  desire  of  serving  Thee !  and  grant,  that  in  the 
sincerity  of  my  soul  I  may  perform  the  several  duties 
of  my  calling,  and  the  vows  that  are  upon  me. 

Blessed  be  Thy  good  Spirit,  that  ever  it  came  into 
my  heart  to  become  Thy  minister. 

May  the  same  good  Spirit  make  me  truly  sensible 
of  the  honour  and  danger  of  so  great  a  trust,  and  of 
the  account  I  am  to  give. 

And  give  me  grace  to  make  amends,  by  my  future 
diligence,  for  the  many  days  and  years  that  I  have 

*  These  Meditations,  and  those  for  the  six  following  days,  on  the  Offices 
of  Consecration  and  Ordination,  are  adapted  peculiarly  to  the  Clergy  only. 


o- 


-o 


o o 

66  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

spent  unprofitably.     And  this  I  beg  for  Jesus  Christ's 
sake. 


He  that  doth  not  find  himself  endued  with  a 
spirit  of  his  calling,  hath  reason  to  fear  that  God 
never  called  him. 

He  that  entereth  not  by  the  door  into  the  sheep- 
fold,  but  climbeth  up  some  other  way,  the  same  is 
a  thief  and  a  robber.  But  he  that  entereth  in  by  the 
door,  is  the  shepherd  of  the  sheep.  The  sheep  hear 
his  voice ;  he  calleth  his  own  sheep  by  name.  He 
goeth  before  them,  and  the  sheep  follow  him ;  for 
they  know  his  voice.  A  stranger  will  they  not  fol- 
low. I  am  the  door  of  the  sheep.  By  me,  if  any 
man  enter,  he  shall  be  saved.  The  good  shepherd 
giveth  his  life  for  the  sheep.  The  hireling  seeth  the 
wolf  coming,  and  leaveth  the  sheep,  for  he  careth 
not  for  them. — John  x.  1,  &lc. 

MARKS    OF    A    TRUE    PASTOR. 

A  Imvful  entrance,  upon  motives  which  aim  at 
the  glory  of  God,  and  the  good  of  souls.  An  external 
call  and  mission,  from  the  apostolic  authority  of 
bishops. 

The  sheep  hear  his  voice  ;  that  is,  when  he  speaks 
to  their  hearts  and  to  their  capacities. 

He  calleth  his  sheep  by  name ;  that  is,  he  knows 
them  so  well  as  to  know  all  their  wants. 

He  gocth  before  them,  and  they  follow  him.  He 
leads  such  a  life  as  they  may  safely  follow. 

O O 


9- 


SUNDAY    MEDITATIONS.  67 


A  stranger  loill  they  not  foJloic ;  that  is,  they 
ought  not  to  follow  such  as  break  catholic  unity. 

I  am  the  door.  It  is  by  Jesus  Christ,  not  by  us, 
that  the  flock  is  kept  in  safety ;  without  Him  we  can 
do  nothing  ;  neither  by  our  learning,  our  eloquence, 
or  our  labours. 

The  good  shepherd  giveth  his  life  for  the  sheep  ; 
either  by  spending  it  in  the  ministry,  or  suffering,  if 
there  be  occasion ;  never  sacrificing  the  flock  to  his 
own  ease,  avarice,  or  humours. 

The  hireling  careth  not  for  the  sheep.  He  lords 
it  over  them,  makes  what  advantage  he  can  of  them, 
and  counts  them  his  own  no  longer  than  they  are 
profitable  to  him.  He  leaves  them  ;  that  is,  when 
dangers  threaten.  Then  the  good  shepherd  and  the 
hireling  are  discovered. 

"  No  man  taketh  this  honour  unto  himself,  but 
he  that  is  called  of  God,  as  was  Aaron." — Hebrews 
v.  4. 

"  High  priest :  who  can  have  compassion  on  the 
ignorant,  and  on  them  that  are  out  of  the  way." — He- 
brews V.  2. 

A  pastor,  who  is  sensible  of  his  own  infirmities, 
will  not  fail  to  treat  sinners  with  meekness  and  com- 
passion. 

"  They  watch  for  your  souls  as  they  that  must 
give  account." — Hebrews  xiii.  17. 

A  most  dreadful  consideration  this ;  insomuch  as 
that  St.  Chrysostom  said,  upon  reflecting  upon  it, 
"  It  is  a  wonder  if  any  ruler  in  the  church  be  saved." 

It  will  be  work  enough  for  every  man  to  give  an 

O ^ O 


O' 


68  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

account  for  himself  j  but  to  stand  charged,  and  to 
be  accountable  for  many  others,  who  can  think  of  it 
without  trembling  ?  O  God  !  how  presumptuous  was 
I,  to  be  persuaded  to  take  upon  me  this  charge  ! 

Who  will  value  himself  upon  ecclesiastical  dig- 
nities, who  considers  that  Judas  was  chosen  to  be  an 
apostle  ? 

O  good  Shepherd !  I  beseech  Thee,  for  myself 
and  for  my  flock,  to  seek  us,  to  find  us,  to  lead  us,  to 
defend  us,  and  to  preserve  us  to  life  eternal. 

If  God  be  satisfied  with  a  pastor,  it  is  of  little  im- 
portance whether  he  please  or  displease  men. 

"  These  things  speak,  and  exhort,  and  rebuke 
with  all  authority.  Let  no  man  despise  thee ;"  that 
is,  for  want  of  exercising  ecclesiastical  discipline. — 
Titus  ii.  15. 

The  following  are  truths  which  cannot  be  preach- 
ed too  often  :  viz.,  the  bondage  of  man  by  sin — the 
necessity  of  a  Deliverer — the  manner  of  our  redemp- 
tion— the  danger  of  not  closing  with  it — the  power 
of  grace  to  deliver  us,  &c. 

A  pastor  should  do  all  this,  and  act  with  the  dig- 
nity of  a  man  who  acts  by  the  authority  of  God. 


BISHOPS,  &c. 

We  are  willinor  enouorh  to  desire  to  imitate  Jesus 
Christ  and  his  Apostles  in  their  authority,  without 
thinking  of  following  them  in  their  humility,  their 
labours,  self-denial,  &/C. 

O 


o- 


SUNDAY    MEDITATIONS.  69 


A  bishop  is  a  pastor  set  over  other  pastors. — 
They  were  to  ordain  elders.  They  might  receive  an 
accusation  agaiijst  an  elder.  They  were  to  charge 
them  to  preach  such  and  such  doctrines ;  to  stop  the 
mouths  of  deceivers  ;  to  set  in  order  the  things  that 
were  wanting ;  and  lastly,  this  was  the  form  of  church 
government  in  all  ages.  So  that  to  reject  this,  is  to 
reject  an  ordinance  of  God. 

"  Whosoever  shall  do,  and  teach  the  command- 
ments, the  same  shall  be  called  great  in  the  kingdom 
of  God."— Matthew  v.  19. 

It  is  in  this,  the  true  greatness  of  a  bishop  does 
consist ;  not  in  eminence  of  his  see,  multitude  of 
attendants,  favour  of  princes,  &/C. 

Bishops  were  called  to  sit  in  parliament,  to  give 
their  counsel  according:  to  God's  law,  as  the  Civil 
Judges  were  to  give  their  advice  according  to  the 
temporal  laws  in  matters  of  difficulty. 

"  Whosoever  of  you  will  be  chiefest,  shall  be 
servant  of  all." — Mark  x.  44. 

The  greatest  prelate  in  the  Church  is  he  who  is 
most  conformable  to  the  example  of  Christ,  by  hu- 
mility, charity,  and  care  of  his  flock  ;  and  who,  for 
Christ's  sake,  will  be  a  servant  to  the  servants  of 
God. 

O  Sovereign  Pastor  of  souls !  renew  in  Thy 
church,  and  especially  in  me,  this  spirit  of  humility ; 
that  I  may  serve  Thee  in  the  meanest  of  Thy  ser- 
vants. If  I  lie  under  the  necessity  of  being  served 
by  others,  let  it  be  with  regret,  and  let  me  exact  no 
more  service  than  is  necessary. 

0 6 


o o 

70  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

"  Behold,  I  send  you  forth  as  lambs  among 
wolves." — Luke  x.  3. 

It  belongs  to  Thee,  O  Lamb  of  God,  to  guard 
both  me  and  my  flock  from  wolves  who  assault  us, 
either  openly  or  in  sheep's  clothing.  I  depend  en- 
tirely upon  Thee,  in  whatever  relates  to  my  own 
preservation,  or  that  of  the  people  committed  to  my 
care. 

"  Lord,  behold,  here  is  Thy  pound,  which  I  have 
kept  laid  up  in  a  napkin." — Luke  xix.  20. 

O  my  Saviour,  I  tremble  to  think  how  I  have 
followed  the  example  of  this  slothful  servant;  and 
what  reason  I  have  to  dread  his  doom.  Rest  is  a 
crime  in  one  who  has  promised  to  labour  all  the  days 
of  his  life.  And  in  me,  therefore,  it  is  a  great  evil, 
not  to  be  always  doing  good.  Pardon  me,  my  God, 
for  what  is  past ;  and  let  me  not  imagine,  that  be- 
cause I  am  free  from  gross  and  scandalous  crimes, 
that  therefore  I  lead  a  good  life. 

O  Lord,  give  me  grace  proportionable  to  the  tal- 
ents I  have  received,  and  to  the  account  I  am  to 
give ;  that  I  may  faithfully  perform  all  the  duties 
belonging  to  my  state.     Amen. 


Whoever  is  associated  to  the  priesthood  of  Christ, 
ought,  in  imitation  of  Him,  to  sacrifice  himself  for 
the  advantage  of  His  Church,  and  for  all  the  designs 
of  God. 

"  But  ye  shall  not  be  so ;  but  he  that  is  greatest 


O- 


o o 

SUNDAY    MEDITATIONS.  71 

among  you,  let  him  be  as  the  younger  ;  and  he  that 
is  chief,  as  he  that  doth  serve." — Luke  xxii.  26. 

A  Bishop  does  not  know  his  office  in  the  church, 
if  he  pretends  to  distinguish  himself  by  power,  impe- 
riousness,  and  grandeur  ;  or  by  any  other  way  than  by 
humility,  and  by  a  great  concern  for  souls.  Marks 
of  distinction  are  rather  a  burden  which  he  bears  out 
of  necessity,  but  complains  of  them  secretly  to  God. 
He  considers  himself  as  the  servant,  not  as  the  lord 
of  souls.  Even  Jesus  Christ  made  Himself  our  pat- 
tern in  this. 


TRANSLATION     OF 

BISHOPS  AND  PASTORS. 

Self-love  is  too  often  at  the  bottom,  and  not  the 
glory  of  God,  or  the  good  of  souls. 

When  men's  labours  are  attended  with  tolerable 
success,  yet,  because  either  they  can  better  their 
temporal  condition,  or  think  that  a  more  public  sta- 
tion would  be  more  suitable  to  their  great  capacities, 
they  leave  their  station  for  one  more  full  of  dangers, 
without  any  prospect  of  being  more  serviceable  to 
God,  or  to  his  church,  and  the  souls  of  men ;  not 
considering,  that  this  is  the  voice  of  pride,  self-love, 
and  covetousness,  and  an  evil  example  to  others,  to 
whom  we  do  or  should  preach  humility,  as  the  very 
foundation  of  Christianity. 

The  greater  share  we  have  in  the  authority  of 
Jesus  Christ,  the  greater  must  we  expect  to  have  in 

o 6 


o 

72  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

His  sufferings  ;  the  cross  being  the  reward  of  faithful 
pastors. 

To  leave  a  clergy  and  a  people  to  whom  one  is 
perfectly  well  known,  to  go  to  another  to  whom  one 
is  a  stranger,  and  this  for  the  sake  of  riches,  which 
are  supposed  to  have  been  renounced,  this  was  un- 
known to  the  first  ages  of  Christianity. 

He  is  but  the  vain  image  of  a  pastor,  an  idol 
shepherd,*  who  chooses  to  abandon  his  flock,  and 
leave  them  to  the  conduct  of  those  who  have  no  con- 
cern for  them  ;  and  entrust  the  salvation  of  those 
souls  to  others,  for  whom  he  himself  is  responsible  to 
God.  He  may  be  learned,  he  may  be  employed,  &lc., 
but  he  cannot  be  a  good  shepherd. 

"  Thou  wast  altogether  born  in  sins,  and  dost 
thou  teach  us?  And  they  cast  him  out." — John 
ix.  34. 

This  is  the  character  of  a  wicked  pastor  ; — to 
treat  their  flock  with  imperiousness,  and  ill  language ; 
to  be  impatient  to  be  told  their  duty,  and  to  be  over- 
hasty  in  turning  men  out  of  communion,  and  break- 
ing unity. 

From  the  time  a  pastor  is  mercenary,  he  has  an 
indifferency  for  the  interests  of  Christ  and  His 
church,  and  is  ready  to  give  all  up  upon  the  prospect 
of  worldly  honour  and  advantage. 

On  the  other  hand,  nothing  renders  a  pastor 
more  amiable  in  the  sight  of  God,  or  draws  down 
more  graces  and  blessings,  than  a  contempt  of  earthly 

Zechariah  xi.  17. 

o — o 


) __^o 

SUNDAY    MEDITATIONS.  73 

things,  and  of  the  conveniences  of  life,  that  he  may 
approve  himself  a  faithful  minister  of  Christ. 

He  lays  down  his  life,  who  lays  down  the  love 
thereof,  for  his  flock. 

"  If  I  do  not  the  works  of  my  Father,  believe  me 
not."— John  x.  37. 

Since  Jesus  Christ  put  his  doctrine  upon  this 
issue,  let  me  not  expect  to  be  His  minister,  if  I  do 
not  show  forth,  in  my  life,  the  works  becoming  such 
a  person. 

A  minister  of  state  talks  of  nothing  but  of  the 
interests  of  his  prince,  &,c.  ;  so  should  we,  if  this 
were  most  at  our  hearts. 

"  He  that  receiveth  whomsoever  I  send  receiveth 
me ;  and  he  that  receiveth  me  receiveth  him  that 
sent  me." — John  xiii.  20. 

"  It  is  not  reason  that  we  should  leave  the  word 
of  God,  and  serve  tables." — Acts  vi.  2. 

That  is,  spiritual  affairs  must  not  be  left  for  the 
sake  of  temporal. 

They  who  are  the  first  in  authority  ought  to  be 
the  first  in  discharging  their  duty,  and  in  setting  a 
good  example  to  others. 

"  Ourselves  your  servants  for  Jesus'  sake." — 2 
Corinthians  iv.  5. 

An  air  of  imperiousness  does  not  become  a  ser- 
vant. 

"  They  are  the  messengers  of  the  churches,  and 
the  glory  of  Christ."— 2  Cor.  viii.  23. 

A  faithful  pastor  is  the  glory  of  Christ,  because 
his  whole  life  is  a  continual  sacrifice  to  the  glory  of 

"— O 


o — — o 

74  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

Him  who  has  sent  him  ;  and  because  Christ  Himself 
has  made  him  faithful,  &lc. 

A  true  pastor  has  but  one  thing  at  heart,  which 
is  the  performance  of  his  duty  ;  and  this  is  that  which 
secures  his  peace,  his  confidence,  his  hope,  &c. 

"  That  thou  mayest  charge  some  that  they  teach 
no  other  doctrine." — 1  Timothy  i.  3. 

This  is  one  of  the  chief  duties  of  a  bishop,  to  be 
watchful  concerning  the  purity  of  the  doctrine,  that 
none  corrupt  it,  but  that  they  confine  themselves  to 
the  truths  taught  by  the  apostles,  (verse  4,)  that  they 
avoid  such  as  only  minister  to  questions  [disputes], 
rather  than  to  godly  edifying. 

"  A  bishop  must  be  blameless,  the  husband  of 
one  wife,  vigilant,  sober  (modest),  of  good  behaviour, 
given  to  hospitality,  apt  to  teach  ;  not  given  to  wine, 
no  striker,  not  greedy  of  filthy  lucre  ;  but  patient, 
not  a  brawler,  not  covetous  ;  one  that  ruleth  well  his 
own  house,  having  his  children  in  subjection  with  all 
gravity  ;  not  a  novice,  lest  being  lifted  up  with  pride 
he  fall  into  the  condemnation  of  the  devil.  More- 
over he  must  have  a  good  report  of  them  which  are 
without ;  lest  he  fall  into  reproach  and  the  snare  of 
the  devil."— 1  Tim.  iii.  2—7. 

My  God,  what  qualifications  are  these !  and  how 
rash  was  I  to  undertake  such  a  work,  without  sitting 
down  and  counting  the  cost,  whether  I  was  able  to 
finish  it !  Thou  only  canst  supply  all  my  defects, 
which  I  beseech  Thee  to  do. 

Enable  me,  I  beseech  Thee,  to  come  as  near  as 
possible  to  this  character  ;  that  I  may  teach  the  mys- 
6 ^ _. 


o — o 

SUNDAY    MEDITATIONS.  75 

teries,  defend  the  faith,  maintain  the  truths  of  the 
gospel ;  that  I  may  be  a  pattern  to  my  flock,  edify 
the  church,  both  by  my  discourses  and  example,  and 
hearty  zeal  for  the  salvation  of  souls,  and  a  care  to 
secure  my  flock  from  the  corruptions  of  the  age. 
Amen. 

CHURCH    GOVERNMENT. 

''  Walk  in  wisdom  toward  them  that  are  without, 
redeeming  the  time." — Col.  iv.  5. 

Prudence  is  very  necessary  in  dangerous  times  ; 
it  being  no  small  fault  to  give  occasion  to  the  raisino" 
of  storms  against  the  church  and  her  ministers,  for 
want  of  having  a  due  regard  to  the  times,  and  to  the 
passions  of  carnal  men. 

*'  Take  heed  unto  thyself,  and  unto  the  doctrine ; 
continue  in  them  :  for  in  doing  this  thou  shalt  both 
save  thyself,  and  them  that  hear  thee." — 1  Timothy 
iv.  16. 

That  is,  endeavour  first  to  establish  the  kingdom 
of  God  in  yourself,  and  then  you  will  be  able  to  do  it 
in  your  flock  ;  and  so  both  shall  be  saved. 

"  Whosoever  will  be  great  among  you,  let  him 
be  your  minister  ;  and  whosoever  will  be  chief  among 
you,  let  him  be  your  servant ;  even  as  the  Son  of 
man  came  not  to  be  ministered  unto,  but  to  minis- 
ter."— Matthew  xx.  26,  27. 

God  give  me  a  true  and  prudent  humility,  to 
have  nothing  of  the  air  of  secular  governors,  to  at- 
tend the  flock   of  Christ  as    a  servant,  to  look  on 


-Q 


76 


SACRA    PRIVATA. 


him  as  my  pattern,  to  study  his  conduct  and  spirit, 
to  spend  and  be  spent  for  my  flock,  that  I  may 
never  desire  to  increase  my  burden,  that  I  may  be 
better  qualified  to  be  ministered  unto ;  and  that  I 
may  never  strive  to  live  at  ease,  in  plenty,  in  luxury, 
repose,  and  independence.     Amen. 

The  name  of  a  servant  ought  to  be  esteemed  hon- 
ourable to  the  eye  of  faith,  and  a  real  privilege,  since 
Jesus  Christ  took  upon  him  the  nature  of  a  servant. 

Bishops  and  priests  (saith  St.  Ambrose)  are  hon- 
ourable, on  account  of  the  sacrifice  they  offer. 

The  power  of  the  keys,  and  the  exercise  of  that 
povi^er  ;  the  due  use  of  confirmation  and  (previous  to 
that)  examination ;  a  strict  examination  into  the 
learning,  lives,  and  characters  of  such  as  are  de- 
signed for  holy  orders,  are  matters  of  infinite  and 
eternal  concern.  As  also  the  visitation  of  parishes, 
and  exercise  of  church  discipline  upon  all  offenders. 

A  man  may  be  ruined  by  those  very  means  which 
were  designed  to  enable  him  to  discharge  his  duty 
with  more  convenience.  And  bishops  have  too  often 
been  put  into  such  easy  circumstances,  as  to  forget 
that  they  were  bishops. 

A  bishop  who  has  more  regard  to  his  temporali- 
ties than  to  the  souls  of  his  flock,  is  fallen  into  this 
sad  condition. 

*'  Behold  my  servant,  whom  I  have  chosen ;  he 
shall  not  strive,  nor  cry ;  neither  shall  any  man  hear 
bis  voice  in  the  streets.  A  bruised  reed  shall  he  not 
break ;  and  smoking  flax  shall  he  not  quench," 
&c. — Matthew  xii.  18,  19,  &c. 


O- 


6 


-— o 

SUNDAY    MEDITATIONS.  77 

How  lovely  is  this  meekness  of  Christ !  how  wor- 
thy to  be  imitated  by  his  ministers  !  their  ministry 
not  being  a  ministry  of  pride,  contention,  imperious- 
ness,  and  violence,  but  of  humility,  peace,  mildness, 
and  moderation. 

"  And  he  had  in  his  riorht  hand  seven  stars." — 
Revelation  i.  16. 

Make  me,  O  Jesus,  a  shining  star  in  thy  church; 
support  me  by  thy  right  hand,  guide  and  direct  me  by 
thy  light ;  let  me  never  become  a  wandering  star. 

A  primitive  bishop  will  be  careful  to  avoid,  as 
much  as  possible,  worldly  equipage  and  retinue, 
excess,  pomp,  and  ostentation.  To  do  otherwise 
would  be  to  establish  the  kingdom  of  Satan,  which 
we  would  destroy  ;  and  to  destroy  the  kingdom  of 
Jesus,  which  we  would  establish. 

MISSION. 

May  I,  gracious  Lord,  take  all  opportunities  of 
showing  my  mission,  by  edifying  my  neighbour,  and 
showinof  him  the  Saviour  on  which  his  salvation  de- 
pends. 

Bishops  are  called  angels  in  the  Revelations,  inti- 
mating that  they  should  have  no  interest  on  earth  at 
heart  so  much  as  that  of  the  good  of  the  church,  and 
the  honour  of  God. 

RESIDENCE. 

Nothing  can  supply  the  want  of  a  pastor's  pre- 
sence. 
O 


Q- 


-Q 


78 


SACRA    PRIVATA. 


INTERCESSION  FOR  MY  FLOCK. 

He  who  bewails  not  the  sins  of  his  people,  and 
does  not,  by  his  own  tears,  make  as  it  were  some 
amends  for  their  impenitency,  is  not  worthy  to  be 
their  mediator  with  God. 

God  often  grants,  to  the  faith  and  prayers  of 
others,  the  conversion  of  a  sinner,  who  himself  doth 
not  think  of  God. 

Gracious  God,  look  down  in  mercy  upon  the 
miserable  case  of  these  whom  I  present  before  Thee. 
Touch  their  hearts  most  powerfully  from  above,  that 
they  may  see,  before  it  be  too  late,  the  danger  of 
living  without  God  in  the  world,  for  Jesus  Christ's 
sake.     Amen. 


FOR  A  CRIMINAL  UNDER    THE  SENTENCE  OF  DEATH. 


O  merciful  God,  our  only  help  in  time  of  need, 
hear  me,  I  beseech  Thee,  for  this  miserable  sinner. 

Touch  his  heart  most  powerfully  from  above,  that 
he  may  give  glory  to  Thee  in  a  full  and  free  confes- 
sion of  his  crimes,  and  of  Thy  justice  and  mercy  in 
brincrinof  them  to  liorht. 

o         O  CD 

Give  him  a  true  sense  and  knowledge  of  all  his 
sins,  and  true  repentance  for  them,  that  they  may  be 
done  away  by  Thy  mercy,  and  his  pardon  sealed  in 
heaven  before  he  go  hence,  and  be  no  more  seen. 


o — 0 

SUNDAY    MEDITATIONS.  79 

Grant  that  with  a  firm  faith  and  trust  in  Thy 
mercy,  he  may  lay  hold  of  thy  promises,  for  Jesus 
Christ's  sake,  to  all  that  repent  and  believe. 

Look  upon  the  work  of  thine  own  hands.  Let  not 
his  sins  obstruct  Thy  mercy.  Suffer  him  not  to  over- 
look this  day  of  visitation,  nor  to  die  in  his  sins. 

O  blessed  Jesus,  O  powerful  Advocate,  undertake 
for  this  sinner  by  Thy  cross  and  passion ;  deliver 
him  from  the  bitter  pain  of  eternal  death,  as  Thou 
didst  the  penitent  thief,  even  at  the  last  hour.    Amen. 

BRIEFS. 

Consider  the  uncertainty  of  human  affairs.  Who 
knows  whose  turn  it  may  be  next,  to  suffer  by  fire, 
by  loss  of  friends,  sickness,  &:.c.,  so  as  to  want  the 
charity  of  others  ? 


LORD'S   SUPPER. 

BEFORE    SERVICE    BEGINS. 

May  it  please  Thee,  O  God,  who  hast  called  us 
to  this  ministry,  to  make  us  worthy  to  offer  unto 
Thee  this  sacrifice  for  our  own  sins,  and  for  the  sins 
of  Thy  people. 

Accept  our  service  and  our  persons,  through  our 
Lord  Jesus  Christ,  who  liveth  and  reigneth,  with 
Thee  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  one  God,  world  without 
end.     Amen. 

O,  reject  not  this  people  for  me,  and  for  my  sins. 


A 


o- 


80  SACRA  PRIVATA. 


UPON  PLACING  THE  ALMS  UPON  THE  ALTAR. 

All  that  we  possess  is  the  effect  of  Thy  bounty, 
O  God  ;  and  of  Thy  own  do  we  give  Thee.  Pardon 
all  our  vain  expenses  ;  and  accept  of  this  testimony 
of  our  gratitude  to  Thee,  our  Benefactor,  for  the 
Lord  Jesus'  sake. 

UPON  PLACING  THE  ELEMENTS  UPON  THE  ALTAR. 

Vouchsafe  to  receive  these  Thy  creatures  from  the 
hands  of  us  sinners,  O  Thou  self-sufficient  God  ! 

IMMEDIATELY  AFTER  THE  CONSECRATION. 

We  offer  unto  Thee,  our  King  and  our  God,  this 
bread  and  this  cup. 

We  give  Thee  thanks  for  these  and  for  all  Thy 
mercies,  beseeching  Thee  to  send  down  Thy  Holy 
Spirit  upon  this  sacrifice,  that  he  may  make  this 
bread  the  Body  of  Thy  Christ,  and  this  cup  the 
Blood  of  Thy  Christ :  and  that  all  we,  who  are  par- 
takers thereof,  may  thereby  obtain  remission  of  our 
sins,  and  all  other  benefits  of  his  Passion. 

And,  together  with  us,  remember,  O  God,  for 
good,  the  whole  mystical  body  of  Thy  Son  ;  that  such 
as  are  yet  alive  may  finish  their  course  with  joy  ;  and 
that  we,  with  all  such  as  are  dead  in  the  Lord,  may 
rest  in  hope  and  rise  in  glory,  for  Thy  Son's  sake, 
whose  death  we  now  commemorate.     Amen. 

o & 


' o 

SUNDAY    MEDITATIONS.  81 

May  I  atone  unto  Thee,  O  God,  by  offering  to 
Thee  the  pure  and  unbloody  sacrifice,  which  Thou 
hast  ordained  by  Jesus  Christ.     Amen. 

But  how  should  I  dare  to  offer  Thee  this  sacri- 
fice, if  I  had  not  first  offered  myself  a  sacrifice  to 
Thee,  my  God  ? 

May  I  never  offer  the  prayers  of  the  faithful  with 
polluted  lips,  nor  distribute  the  bread  of  life  with 
unclean  hands  ! 

I  acknowledge  and  receive  Thee,  O  Jesus,  as 
sent  of  God,  a  Prophet,  to  make  His  will  known  to 
us,  and  His  merciful  purpose  to  save  us  :  as  our 
priest,  who  offered  Himself  an  acceptable  sacrifice 
for  us,  to  satisfy  the  divine  justice,  and  to  make  inter- 
cession for  us ;  and  as  our  King,  to  rule  and  defend 
us  against  all  our  enemies. 

May  I  always  receive  the  holy  Sacrament  in  the 
same  meaning,  intention,  and  blessed  effect,  with 
which  Jesus  Christ  administered  it  to  His  apostles  in 
His  Last  Supper. 


CONFIRMATION. 

By  faith  we  receive  the  Spirit,  which  is  of  God. 
"  I  will  put  my  Spirit  within  you,"  saith  God. 

We  are  truly  Christians,  by  receiving  the  Spirit  of 
Christ. 

This  is  the  great  blessing  of  the  gospel,  the  fel- 
lowship of  the  Holy  Ghost,  with  the  desire  of  which 

O- — _ o 


o o 

82  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

we  conclude  our  daily  prayers,  with  the  grace  of  our 
Lord  Jesus  Christ. 

The  love  of  God  will  be  shed  abroad  in  your 
hearts,  by  the  Holy  Ghost  which  is  given  you,  if  you 
do  not  resist  nor  grieve  Him,  but  follow  the  good 
thoughts  He  puts  in  your  hearts. 

This  love  of  God  for  you  will  lead  you  to  the  love 
of  your  neighbour.  By  the  same  spirit  you  will  be 
led  to  every  good  work,  to  be  just  to  all,  charitable, 
&c.,  &c.  "  The  fruits  of  the  Spirit  are  these  ;  love, 
joy,  peace,  long-suffering,  gentleness,  goodness,  faith, 
meekness,  temperance." 

By  the  same  Holy  Spirit,  you  will  be  kept  from 
pride,  lust,  malice,  and  every  evil  temper  which 
makes  God  our  enemy.  It  is  by  this  good  Spirit  that 
you  will  be  taught  to  pray,  and  to  do  every  thing 
which  you  believe  will  please  God,  and  avoid  what 
you  know  will  offend  Him. 

THE  EFFECT  AND  BLESSING  OF  CONFIRMATION. 

It  is  to  convey  the  inestimable  blessing  of  the 
Holy  Spirit  of  God  by  prayer,  and  the  imposition  of 
the  hands  of  God's  minister,  that  He  may  dwell  in 
you,  and  keep  you  from  the  temptations  of  the  world, 
the  flesh,  and  the  devil. 

Confirmation  is  the  perfection  of  baptism.  The 
Holy  Ghost  descends  invisibly  upon  such  as  are 
rightly  prepared  to  receive  such  a  blessing,  as  at 
first  He  came  visibly  upon  those  that  had  been  bap- 
tized. 

o 


-o 

StJNDAY    MEDITATIONS.  83 

"  Then  laid  they"  (that  is,  Peter  and  John) 
"  their  hands  on  them,"  (whom  Philip  had  baptized,) 
"  and  they  received  the  Holy  Ghost." — Acts  viii.  7. 

O  God,  who  hast  called  me  to  this  high  office,  to 
confirm  and  bless  the  people  in  Thy  name,  let  Thy 
blessing  be  dispensed,  not  according  to  my  unwor- 
thiness,  but  according  to  Thine  own  goodness,  and 
the  appointments  of  Thy  church. 

O  Lord,  graciously  behold  Thy  servants,  on 
whom  I  am  now  going  to  lay  my  hands. 

Possess  their  hearts  with  a  lively  sense  of  Thy 
great  mercy,  in  bringing  them  from  the  power  of 
Satan,  in  giving  them  an  early  right  to  the  covenant 
of  grace  ;  that  with  the  full  consent  of  their  will  they 
may  devote  themselves  to  Thee,  and  to  Thy  service ; 
that  they  may  receive  the  fulness  of  Thy  grace,  and 
be  able  to  withstand  the  temptations  of  the  world, 
the  flesh,  and  the  devil. 

Keep  them,  O  Lord,  in  the  unity  of  the  church, 
and  grant  that  they  may  improve  all  the  means  of 
grace  vouchsafed  to  them  in  this  church,  of  which 
they  are  now  to  be  made  complete  members. 

Increase  their  knowledge,  confirm  their  faith, 
and  strengthen  them  in  all  goodness.  Preserve  in 
their  minds  a  constant  remembrance  of  that  vow 
which  they  are  going  to  renew  before  Thee  and  Thy 
church ;  that  knowing  that  they  are  the  servants  of 
the  living  God,  they  may  walk  as  in  Thy  sight,  avoid 
all  such  things  as  are  contrary  to  their  profession, 
and  follow  all  such  things  as  are  agreeable  unto  the 
I    same. 

O C 


Q. _ 

84  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

O  Lord,  who  hast  made  them  Thy  children  by 
adoption,  bring  them  in  Thy  good  time  to  thine  ever- 
histing  kingdom,  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord. 
Amen. 

The  Jews'  custom  was,  when  children  were  thir- 
teen years  old,  and  had  learnt  the  law,  &c.,  and  their 
prayers,  to  bring  them  before  the  congregation,  upon 
which  they  were  declared  sons  of  the  precept,  and 
were  now  to  answer  for  their  own  sins,  &c. 

This  usage  was  so  reasonable  and  necessary,  that 
it  is  probable  it  had  its  origin  from  God  Himself;  as 
we  are  sure  confirmation  had  from  Christ. 

Bishops  shall  confirm  in  their  visitation.  Minis- 
ters shall  prepare  children  for  confirmation.     Can.  61. 

Ministers  shall  give  the  names  of  such  as  are  to 
be  confirmed  to  the  Bishop,  and  if  the  Bishop  ap- 
prove of  them,  he  shall  confirm  them.  See  Ruhrick 
after  the  Catechism. 

If  you  ask,  where  this  is  ordered,  I  refer  you  to 
the  Acts  of  the  Apostles.  But  if  the  sacred  Scrip- 
tures were  silent,  the  consent  of  all  the  world  in  this 
particular  is  instead  of  a  command. 

Acts  viii.  14.  It  appears  from  hence,  that  even 
in  the  Apostles'  times,  confirmation  was  necessary, 
as  well  as  baptism,  that  persons  might  become  com- 
plete members  of  the  church,  and  partakers  of  the 
grace  of  Christ ;  and  that  these  graces  were  con- 
ferred by  peculiar  hands ;  for  though  Philip  had  the 
power  of  miracles,  yet  he  could  not  do  that  which 
belonged  to  a  higher  order : — So  great  a  regard  had 
the  Spirit  of  God  to  order  and  discipline.  I 

O O 


o — — o 

SUNDAY    MEDITATIONS.  85 

As  the  Holy  Spirit  is  present  in  our  baptism  to 
seal  the  remission  of  sins,  and  to  infuse  the  seeds  of 
Christian  life ;  so  is  He  present  in  confirmation,  to 
shed  further  influences  on  those  that  receive  it,  for 
stirring  up  the  gift  of  God  bestowed  in  baptism,  &.c. 


PRAYER    AFTER    CONFIRMATION. 

"  And  he  laid  his  hands  on  them." — Matthew  xix. 

15. 

O  Holy  Spirit  of  Grace  !  I  make  my  humble  sup- 
plication to  Thee,  in  behalf  of  those  Thy  servants 
on  whom  I  have  this  day  laid  my  hands.  Be  Thou 
their  loisdom,  to  give  them  the  knowledge  of  religion ; 
— their  understanding,  to  know  their  duty ; — their 
counsel,  in  all  their  doubts  ; — their  strength,  against 
all  temptations ; — their  knowledge,  in  what  belongs  to 
the  state  of  life  in  which  Thy  providence  shall  place 
them ; — their  piety  and  godliness  in  all  their  actions ; 
and  be  Thou  their  fear,  all  their  life  long,  for  Jesus 
Christ's  sake.     Amen. 


EXHORTATION    AFTER    IMPOSITION    OF    HANDS. 

You  have  this  day  publicly  acknowledged  and 
declared  the  Lord  to  be  your  God,  and  that  you  will 
walk  in  His  ways,  and  keep  His  commands,  and 
hearken  unto  His  voice.  And  the  Lord  hath  owned 
and  received  you  to  be  His  servants,  and  to  reward 

O O 


o- 


-o 


86 


SACRA    PRIVATA. 


6- 


you  with  eternal  life  and  happiness,  if  you  continue 
to  serve  Him  faithfully  unto  your  life's  end. 

To  enable  you  to  do  so,  He  hath  given  you  His 
Holy  Spirit,  who  will  assist  and  govern  you  all  your 
days,  that  you  may  be  holy  unto  the  Lord,  and  be  for 
ever  happy  when  you  die. 

Take  heed,  therefore,  that  you  do  not  grieve  that 
Holy  Spirit,  nor  force  Him  to  forsake  you,  and  leave 
you  to  yourselves,  which  will  be  the  greatest  judg- 
ment that  can  befall  you ;  for  then  the  evil  spirits  will 
get  power  over  you,  and  without  a  speedy  repentance, 
and  return  to  God,  they  will  at  last  bring  you  to  de- 
struction both  of  soul  and  body. 

The  only  way  to  prevent  this  sad  judgment  is,  to 
beg  of  God  every  day,  to  keep  you  from  all  wilful  and 
known  sin.  For  he  that  liveth  in  any  known  sin, 
the  good  Spirit  of  God  will  at  last  forsake  him  most 
certainly. 

When  the  Holy  Ghost  puts  into  your  heart  any 
good  thought,  or  good  purposes,  or  your  conscience 
tells  you  that  you  have  done,  or  are  going  to  do,  any 
thing  that  will  displease  a  holy  God,  be  assured  it  is 
the  voice  of  God,  and  have  a  care  of  neglectinor  to 
hear,  as  you  value  your  salvation. 

Lastly :  Remember  to  beg  of  God  to  direct  and 
bless  you  in  all  your  ways.  And  forget  not  this  safe 
direction  and  rule : — That  if  you  cannot  have  the 
confidence  to  pray  for  God's  blessing  upon  any  work 
you  are  about,  or  going  to  undertake,  that  work  is 
unlawful,  and  will  be  unprosperous,  and  a  curse,  and 
not  a  blessing  to  you. 


o— — o 

SACRA    PRIVATA.  87 

ANOTHER    EXHORTATION. 

The  church,  dear  children,  takes  this  way  to  con- 
vince you,  that  the  service  which  we  owe  to  God 
should  be  free  and  voluntary. 

You  have  promised  with  your  own  mouths,  to 
serve  God  faithfully  all  your  days. 

It  behoves  you,  therefore,  to  have  these  promises 
always  before  your  eyes,  that  you  may  remember  and 
perform  them ;  otherwise  it  would  have  been  better 
for  you  that  you  had  never  been  baptized — never 
been  born. 

Your  everlasting  salvation  or  damnation  depends 
upon  your  keeping  or  forgetting  the  promise  you  have 
made  this  day. 

Your  duty,  therefore,  is  to  pray  daily  to  God  for 
grace  and  strength  to  fulfil  the  same  unto  your  lives' 
end,  that  you  may  be  happy  for  ever ;  which  God 
grant,  for  Jesus  Christ's  sake.     Amen. 

You  are  come  into  a  very  corrupt  world ;  you  will 
meet  with  very  many  temptations ;  you  are  naturally 
weak,  and  prone  to  evil  continually ;  so  that,  without 
God's  assistance,  you  are  sure  to  be  undone. 

"  Which  of  you  intending  to  build  a  tower,  sitteth 
not  down  first,  and  counteth  the  cost,  whether  he 
have  sufficient  to  finish  it  ?" — Luke  xiv.  28. 

You  are  much  likelier  to  become  apostates  than 
good  Christians,  if  you  have  not  well  considered,  and 
understand,  the  faith  and  duties  of  Christianity. 

God  stands  in  need  of  nobody's  service  in  this 

C^ O 


-o 


88 


SACRA    PRIVATA. 


world ;  it  is  for  our  sake  alone,  that  he  calls  us  to 
His  service ;  but  then  He  would  have  none  but  such 
as  engage  themselves  in  His  service  freely  and  of 
their  own  choice. 


6- 


o- 


Q 


MONDAY   MEDITATIOlfS. 

HOLY  SCRIPTURES.  PREACHER.  SERMONS. 


Question  from  the  Office  of  Consecration. — Are  you  persuaded  that  the  Holy 
Scriptures  contain  sufficiently  all  doctrine  required  of  necessity  to  eternal 
salvation  through  faith  in  Jesus  Christ  ?  And  are  you  determined  out  of 
the  same  Holy  Scriptures,  to  instruct  the  people  committed  to  your  charge, 
and  to  teach  or  maintain  nothing  as  required  of  necessity  to  eternal  sal- 
vation, but  tiiat  which  you  shall  be  persuaded  may  be  concluded  and 
proved  by  the  same  ? 

Jlnswer. — I  am  so  persuaded  and  determined  by  God's  grace. 

Question.— W'lW  you  then  faithfully  exercise  yourself  in  the  same  Holy 
Scriptures,  and  call  upon  God  by  prayer  for  the  true  understanding  of  the 
same  ;  so  as  you  may  be  able  by  them  to  teach  and  exhort  with  whole- 
some doctrine,  and  to  withstand  and  convince  gainsayers? 

Answer. — I  will  do  so  by  the  help  of  God. 

O  God,  the  fountain  of  all  wisdom,  enlighten  my 
mind,  that  I  myself  may  see,  and  be  able  to  teach 
others  the  wonders  of  Thy  Law ;  that  I  may  learn 
from  Thee  what  I  ought  to  think  and  speak  concern- 
ing Thee ;  and  that  whatever  in  Thy  Holy  Word  I 
shall  profitably  learn,  I  may  indeed  fulfil  the  same. 

Direct  and  bless  all  my  labours.  Give  me  a  dis- 
cerning spirit,  a  sound  judgment,  and  an  honest  and 
a  religious  heart,  that  in  all  my  studies,  my  first  aim 


O 


-O 


o o 

90  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

may  be,  to  set  forth  Thy  glory,  by  setting  forward  the 
salvation  of  men. 

And  if,  by  my  ministry,  Thy  kingdom  shall  be 
enlarged,  let  me,  in  all  humility,  ascribe  the  success, 
not  unto  myself,  but  unto  Thy  good  Spirit,  which 
enables  us  both  to  will  and  to  do  what  is  acceptable 
to  Thee,  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 

"  But  we  will  give  ourselves  continually  unto 
prayer,  and  to  the  ministry  of  the  word." — Acts  vi.  4. 

"  Can  the  blind  lead  the  blind?  Shall  they  not 
both  fall  into  the  ditch?"— Luke  vi.  39. 

"  Give  attendance  to  reading,  to  exhortation,  to 
doctrine." — 1  Timothy  iv.  13. 

duesnel  says.  Not  to  read,  is  to  tempt  God ;  to 
do  nothing  but  study  is  to  forget  the  ministry.  To 
read,  in  order  to  appear  more  learned,  is  a  sinful 
vanity.  But  to  read,  in  order  to  exhort,  and  to  in- 
struct with  wholesome  doctrine,  this  is  according  to 
God's  will  and  word. 

''  If  any  of  you  lack  wisdom,  let  him  ask  of  God, 
who  giveth  to  every  man  liberally,  and  upbraideth 
not,  and  it  shall  be  given  him." — James  i.  5. 

Wisdom  being  the  gift  of  God,  and  this  gift  the 
fruit  of  prayer,  a  prayer  that  is  humble,  earnest,  and 
persevering,  will  assuredly  be  blessed  with  this  excel- 
lent gift. 

O  Jesus,  cause  me  to  read,  to  understand,  to  love, 
to  practise,  and  to  preach  Thy  Word. 

"  If  any  man  will  do"  (that  is,  is  disposed,  de- 
sires to  do)  *'  his  will,  he  shall  know  of  the  doctrine, 

6 6 


o 


■Q 


MONDAY    MEDITATIONS. 


91 


whether  it  be  of  God,  or  whether  I  speak  of  myself." 
— John  vii.  17. 

Light  and  truth  discover  themselves  to  such  as 
desire  to  follow  them. 

"  The  secret  of  the  Lord  is  among  them  that  fear 
Him,  and  He  will  show  them  His  covenant." — Psalm 
XXV.  14. 

It  was  the  saying  of  a  learned  man,  saith  Dr. 
Lightfoot,  that  he  got  more  knowledge  by  his  prayers 
than  by  all  his  studies. 

"  I  thank  Thee,  O  Father,  Lord  of  Heaven  and 
Earth,  because  Thou  hast  hid  these  thinos  from  the 
wise  and  prudent,  and  hast  revealed  them  unto 
babes." — Matthew  xi.  25. 

My  God  and  Saviour,  imprint  on  my  heart  the 
amiable  characters  of  simplicity  and  humility,  which 
are  the  marks  of  Thy  elect,  of  such  to  whom  Thou 
wilt  reveal  Thyself 

It  is  a  dangerous  mistake  to  think  that  any  man 
can  have  a  right  understanding  of  divine  things, 
without  being  illuminated  by  divine  grace,  and  with- 
out leading  a  holy  life. 

"  I  have  more  understanding  than  my  teachers, 
because  I  keep  Thy  commandments." — Psalm  cxix. 
19. 

There  is  a  light  arising  from  a  sincere  good  life, 
which  dispelleth  all  darkness,  and  is  the  best  defence 
against  error  and  sophistry. 

"  All  the  paths  of  the  Lord  are  mercy  and  truth 
unto  such  as  keep  His  covenant  and  His  testimonies." 
— Psalm  XXV.  10. 


O- 


-6 


0 o 

92  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

That  is ;  to  such  as  do  so,  all  the  ways  of  God, 
and  whatever  He  hath  revealed,  will  appear  to  be  the 
effect  of  infinite  wisdom,  goodness,  justice,  and  truth. 

He  giveth  light  and  understanding  unto  the  sim- 
ple. 

"  Blessed  are  the  pure  in  heart,  for  they  shall  see 
God."— Matthew  v.  8. 

"  When  thou  art  converted,  strengthen  thy  breth- 
ren."— Luke  xxii.  32. 

God  grant  that  we  may  all  of  us  consider  the 
absurdity  of  going  about  to  convert  others,  without 
beino;  converted  ourselves. 

To  understand  the  Holy  Scriptures  aright,  is  to 
understand  them  as  the  Primitive  Church  did. 

"  Speak,  Lord,  for  Thy  servant  heareth." — Speak 
to  my  heart,  that  I  may  obey  Thy  word.  "  Teach 
me  to  do  Thy  will,  for  Thou  art  my  God." 

It  belongs  to  God  to  give  the  true  understanding 
of  His  own  Word. 

"  Thou  hypocrite,  first  cast  out  the  beam  out  of 
thine  own  eye,  and  then  shalt  thou  see  clearly  to  cast 
out  the  mote  out  of  thy  brother's  eye." — Matthew  vii.  5. 

That  is ;  purify  your  own  heart  from  all  worldly 
aims;  mortify  your  own  passions,  which  are  the 
cause  of  your  blindness ;  study  that  Word  which 
alone  can  enlighten  you  ;  and  lay  aside  all  prejudices 
which  are  contrary  to  piety. 

A  pastor  should  never  undertake  to  teach  a  virtue 
which  he  has  never  practised  himself 

"  We  have  toiled  all  the  night,  and  have  taken 
nothing." — Luke  v.  5. 

O — 6 


I _ Q 

MONDAY    MEDITATIONS.  93 

So  does  every  preacher,  who  does  not  beg  God's 
blessing  upon  his  labours. 

It  is  impossible  for  any  man  to  teach  well,  who 
does  not  live  well. 

"  My  people  perish  for  want  of  knowledge." 

The  design  of  religion  being  to  lead  men  to  God, 
how  he  is  to  be  served,  appeased,  attained ;  the  busi- 
ness of  a  preacher  should  be,  to  show  how  all  the 
parts  of  religion  contribute  to  these  ends. 

He  that  reads  the  Sacred  Scriptures,  and  under- 
stands the  things  concerning  the  kingdom  of  God, 
and  the  way  of  conducting  men  thither,  need  not 
complain  for  want  of  learning. 

In  preaching,  we  must  speak  to  the  heart,  as  well 
as  to  the  understanding  and  to  the  ear. 

The  end  of  preaching  is,  to  turn  men  from  sin 
unto  God,  that  they  may  be  saved.  He  that  has  not 
this  in  his  view,  will  do  little  good. 

A  preacher  should  accustom  himself  to  give  a 
practical  turn  to  every  thing. 

He  that  leaves  it  to  his  hearers  to  apply  what  he 
has  said,  leaves  to  them  the  greatest  part  of  his  own 
duty. 

To  be  heartily  in  love  with  the  truth  one  recom- 
mends, is  the  great  secret  of  becoming  a  good 
preacher. 

''  My  doctrine  is  not  Mine,  but  His  that  sent  me." 
— John  vii.  16. 

To  preach  our  own  thoughts,  forsaking  God's 
word,  is  like  an  ambassador  who  neglects  his  prince's 
instructions,  and  follows  his  own  fancy. 

O : O 


o o 

94  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

With  what  truth  can  it  be  said,  that  the  sheep 
hear  his  voice,  when  the  shepherd  speaks  of  things, 
or  in  such  a  manner,  as  is  above  their  capacity  ? 

Grant,  O  Lord,  that  I  may  read  Thy  Word  with 
the  same  spirit  with  which  it  was  written. 

Learning  does  not  always  lead  men  to  God ;  it 
often  carries  them  from  Him. — Indeed,  when  they 
study  to  find  out,  and  correct  their  own  weaknesses, 
their  folly,  and  the  corruption  of  their  nature ;  to  be 
convinced  of  the  evil  of  sin,  of  the  vanity  of  the 
world ;  to  fill  their  souls  with  heavenly  wisdom  and 
devout  aflfections  towards  God ;  and  all  this,  that  they 
may  be  better  able  to  convince  and  edify  their  neigh- 
bour ;  such  learning  leads  men  indeed  to  God  : — The 
rest  is  foJly. 

Have  mercy  upon  all  that  sit  in  darkness ;  and 
may  the  saving  truths  of  the  Gospel  be  received  in 
all  the  world  ! 

He  that  sets  his  heart  upon  the  world,  is  not  in  a 
capacity  of  understanding  the  Gospel. 

Give  me  that  true  wisdom  which  consists  in  know- 
ing how  to  save  myself  and  them  that  hear  me. 

Remember,  that  a  man  may  have  the  knowledge 
of  the  Word,  without  the  Spirit. 

OBSCURITY    OF    THE    SCRIPTURES 

Serves  to  subdue  the  pride  of  man ;  to  convince 
us,  that  to  understand  them,  we  have  need  of  a  light 
superior  to  reason,  and  that  we  may  apply  to  God  for 
help. 

O— — 


O — Q 

MONDAY    MEDITATIONS.  95 

May  I  ever  understand  the  true  language  of  Thy 
word,  O  Lord,  and  profit  by  it ! 

Vouchsafe,  O  God,  to  give  me  a  love  for  Thy 
sacred  Scriptures,  and  a  true  understanding  of  them, 
that  I  may  see  therein  the  wonders  of  Thy  conduct, 
and  Thy  love  for  us  Thy  miserable  creatures. 

SERMONS 

Should  be  instructions,  not  declamations,  or  dis- 
playing curious  thoughts,  which  may  amuse,  but  not 
edify  Christians. 

If  God  suffers  even  a  holy  pastor  not  presently  to 
see  the  fruits  of  his  labours,  it  is  to  convince  him, 
that  the  success  of  his  labours  belongs  to  God  ;  that 
he  ought  to  humble  himself,  and  pray  much,  and 
fear,  lest  the  fault  should  be  in  himself. 

Pride  and  irreligion  meet  with  darkness  in  the 
midst  of  light,  raise  vain  disputes,  unprofitable  reflec- 
tions and  inquiries  ;  while  humility  attains  to  light, 
in  the  midst  of  darkness  and  difficulties. 

Whenever  God  vouchsafes  to  open  the  heart,  be 
the  understanding  and  parts  never  so  small,  we  see 
the  reasonableness  and  beauty  of  His  Word,  we  taste 
the  sweetness  and  feel  the  power  thereof 

"  These  things  understood  not  His  disciples  at 
the  first :  but  when  Jesus  was  glorified,  then  remem- 
bered they  that  these  things  were  written  of  Him, 
and  that  they  had  done  these  things  unto  Him." — 
John  xii.  16. 

We  often  read  the  scripture,  without  comprehend- 

O 


o- 


96  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

ing  its  full  meaning  ;  however,  let  us  not  be  discour- 
aged ;  the  light,  in  God's  good  time,  will  break  out, 
and  disperse  the  darkness,  and  we  shall  see  the  mys- 
teries of  the  gospel. 

Grant  me,  O  Lord,  a  persevering'  love  of  Thy 
word,  and  so  much  light  as  is  necessary  for  myself, 
and  those  that  hear  me. 

"  Jesus  said,  This  voice  came  not  for  Me,  but  for 
your  sakes." — John  xii.  30. 

The  way  to  profit  by  reading  the  scriptures  is,  to 
apply  to  ourselves  that  which  is  spoken  in  general 
to  all ;  this  truth,  this  command,  this  threat,  this 
promise,  this  intimation,  is  to  me. 

"  I  have  not  spoken  of  Myself,  but  the  Father 
which  sent  Me  gave  Me  a  command,  what  I  should 
say,  and  how  I  should  speak." — John  xii.  49. 

He  preaches  with  a  well-grounded  confidence, 
who  advances  nothing  merely  of  his  own  head,  but 
vi^hat  he  has  received  from  God.  He  may  then  expect 
a  blessing.  But  then,  let  him  take  care  not  to  dis- 
guise it  by  a  language  foreign  from  God's  word. 

O  Holy  Spirit  of  grace,  cause  me  both  to  under- 
stand and  love  Thy  word. 

"  The  former  treatise  have  I  made  of  all  that 
Jesus  beffan  both  to  do  and  teach." — Acts  i.  1. 

This  is  the  whole  of  a  Pastor's  life.  For  a  man 
to  preach  the  gospel  before  he  has  practised  it,  is  to 
be  a  very  bad  imitator  of  the  Prince  of  Pastors. 

Lord,  grant  that  I  may  imitate  Thee,  by  a  life 
conformable  to  Thine  ;    by  all  ways  becoming  my 


■O 


o- 


MONDAY    MEDITATIONS.  97 


station  in  the  church  ;  and  lay  hold  of  all  the  oppor- 
tunities which  Thou  shalt  put  into  my  hands. 

It  is  God  that  does  all  good  by  the  labours  of  His 
ministers.    To  Him,  therefore,  must  be  all  the  praise. 

More  sinners  are  converted  by  holy,  than  by 
learned  men. 

Inflame  my  heart,  O  God,  with  an  ardent  love  for 
Thy  word,  an  ardent  zeal  for  Thy  glory,  with  a  pure 
and  disinterested  love  for  Thy  Church,  and  with  a 
hearty  desire  of  establishing  Thy  kingdom. 

Who  can  say,  it  is  not  owing  to  himself  that  his 
flock  are  ignorant  of  their  duty  ? 

"  Thou  therefore  which  teachest  another,  teachest 
thou  not  thyself?" — Rom.  ii.  21. 

Unhappy  that  person  who  has  in  his  hands  the 
rule  of  knowledge  and  of  the  truth,  and  makes  no 
other  use  thereof,  but  to  set  up  for  a  teacher  of 
others,  without  applying  to  himself  those  truths  with 
which  his  mind  is  filled.  A  mind  full  of  light,  and 
a  heart  full  of  darkness,  how  dreadful  is  that  man's 
condition  ! 

"  Without  holiness  no  man  shall  see  the  Lord." 

In  all  our  studies,  we  should  take  care  to  beg  of 
God  to  preserve  us  from  error,  and  to  lead  us  to,  and 
keep  us  in,  all  truths  necessary  to  salvation,  by  His 
Holy  Spirit. 

''  That  I  may  make  it  manifest,  (that  is,  the  mys- 
tery of  the  gospel,)  as  I  ought  to  speak." — Colos- 
sians  iv.  4. 

All  preachers  do  not  speak  as  they  ought.  A  man 
may  have  the  skill  to  give   Christian  truths   a  turn 

5 

O — O 


? ° 

98  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

agreeable  to  the  hearers,  without  affecting  their 
hearts.  Human  learning  will  enable  him  to  do  this. 
It  is  prayer  only  that  can  enable  him  so  to  speak  as 
to  convert  the  heart. 

May  I  ever  speak  to  the  hearts,  and  to  the  capa- 
cities of  my  flock. 

"  I  charge  thee,  before  God  and  the  Lord  Jesus 
Christ,  preach  the  Word.  Be  instant  in  season,  out 
of  season  ; — reprove,  rebuke,  exhort,  with  all  long- 
suffering  and  gravity.  For  the  time  will  come,  when 
they  will  not  endure  sound  doctrine ;  and  they  shall 
turn  away  their  ears  from  the  truth.  But  watch  thou 
in  all  things,  endure  afflictions,  make  full  proof  of 
(or  fulfil)  thy  ministry." — 2  Timothy  iv,  1,2,  3,  ^c. 

N.  B.  Preaching  is  a  duty,  but  not  the  only  duty 
of  a  Pastor.  He  is  to  take  all  occasions  to  instruct 
those  that  seek  the  truth  ;  refute  such  as  oppose  it  ; 
reprove  those  that  do  not  practise  it ;  and  confirm 
such  as  have  embraced  it.  And  the  more  we  per- 
ceive the  times  of  apostacy  approaching,  the  more 
zealous  ouo-ht  we  to  be  to  defend  sound  doctrine. 

We  deceive  ourselves,  if  we  fancy  that  we  have 
done  our  duty  when  we  have  given  our  people  a  ser-" 
mon  one  day  in  seven  :  we  must  try  all  ways  to  gain 
a  soul. 

It  will  be  no  comfort  to  a  pastor,  that  the  world 
praises  him  for  some  one  part  of  his  duty,  while  God 
condemns  him  for  the  neglect  of  another. 

"  If  any  man  speak,  let  him  speak  as  the  oracles 
of  God."— 1  Peter  iv.  11. 

That  is,  worthy  of  God,  not  weakening  it  by  soft- 

O — O 


O Q 

MONDAY    MEDITATIONS.  99 

ening  interpretations,  nor  altering  it  by  human  inven- 
tions, nor  degrading  it  by  a  profane  eloquence. 

If  we  find  that  people  do  not  attend  to  the  sacred 
Scripture,  as  the  Word  of  God,  with  eagerness  and 
attention,  we  ought  to  fear  that  the  fault  is  in  those 
that  preach  it  after  such  a  manner  as  is  not  proper  or 
likely  to  make  them  believe  it  to  be  the  word  of  God. 

It  is  good  to  know  what  God  has  revealed,  and 
to  be  iornorant  of  what  he  has  not  thought  fit  to  make 
known  to  us. 


i 


EJACULATIONS     BEFORE     READING     THE     HOLY    SCRIP- 
TURES. 

Give  me,  O  God,  a  love  for  Thy  Scriptures,  and 
a  true  understanding  of  them. 

O  Jesus,  open  my  understanding,  cause  me  to 
love  Thy  word,  and  to  order  my  faith  and  life  accord- 
ing to  it. 

May  I,  O  Jesus,  love  Thy  word,  make  Thy  Gospel 

my  delight,  and  continue  in  the  practice  of  Thy  law 

unto  my  life's  end. 

"  The  Holy  Spirit  shall  guide  you  into  all  truth." 

— John  xvi.  13. 

O  Holy  Spirit,  make  me  to  understand,  embrace, 
and  love  the  truths  of  the  Gospel. 

Give,  O  God,  Thy  blessing  unto  Thy  word,  that 
it  may  become  effectual  to  my  conversion  and  salva- 
tion, and  to  the  salvation  of  all  that  read  or  hear  it. 

O 


o- — — — o 

100  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

Give  me  grace  to  read  Thy  holy  word  with  rever- 
ence and  respect  becoming  the  gracious  manifestation 
of  Thy  will  to  men  ;  submitting  my  understanding 
and  will  to  Thine. 

Let  Thy  gracious  promises,  O  God,  contained  in 
Thy  word,  quicken  my  obedience.  Let  Thy  dreadful 
threatenings  and  judgments  upon  sinners  fright  me 
from  sin,  and  oblige  me  to  a  speedy  repentance,  for 
Jesus  Christ  His  sake. 

Cause  me,  O  God,  to  believe  thy  word,  to  obey 
Thy  commands,  to  fear  Thy  judgments,  and  to  hope 
in,  and  depend  upon  Thy  gracious  promises,  con- 
tained in  Thy  holy  word,  for  Jesus  Christ's  sake. 

Grant,  O  Lord,  that  in  reading  Thy  holy  word,  I 
may  never  prefer  my  private  sentiments  before  those 
of  the  Church  in  the  purely  ancient  times  of  Chris- 
tianity. 

Give  me  a  full  persuasion  of  those  great  truths, 
which  Thou  hast  revealed  in  Thy  holy  word. 

The  gospel  will  not  be  a  means  of  salvation  to  him 
who  reads  or  hears  it  only,  but  to  him  who  reads, 
loves,  remembers,  and  practises  it  by  a  lively  faith. 

Cause  me,  O  God,  rightly  to  understand,  and  con- 
stantly to  walk  in,  the  way  of  Thy  commandments. 

Grant  us  in  this  world  knowledge  of  Thy  truth, 
and  in  the  world  to  come  life  everlasting,  for  Jesus 
Christ's  sake.     Amen. 

From  hardness  of  heart,  and  contempt  of  Thy 
word,  good  Lord,  deliver  us. 

Give  us  all  grace  to  hear  meekly  Thy  word,  to 
receive  it  with  pure  affection,  and  to  bring  forth  the 

O C 


o 


-o 


MONDAY  MEDITATIONS. 


101 


fruits  of  the  Spirit,  to  amend  our  lives  according  to 
Thy  holy  word. 

"  Then  opened  He  their  understanding,  that  they 
might  understand  the  scriptures." — Luke  xxiv.  45. 

Unless  Thou,  O  Jesus,  openest  our  understanding, 
all  our  pains,  all  our  learning,  will  signify  little. 

"Declare  unto  us  this  parable." — Matthew  xiii.  36. 

This  should  instruct  us,  that  the  knowledge  of 
God's  word,  and  the  mysteries  of  the  gospel,  are 
favours  which  we  must  always  beg  of  God. 


O- 


-O 


-o 


TUESMY  MEDITATIONS. 


FALSE    DOCTRINE. 


Question  from  the  Office  of  Ordination. — Are  you  ready,  with  all  faithful 
diligence,  to  banish  and  drive  away  all  erroneous  and  strange  doctrine, 
contrary  to  God's  word  ;  and  both  privately  and  openly  to  call  upon  and 
encourage  others  to  do  the  same  ? 

.Answer. — I  am  ready,  the  Lord  being  my  helper. 


Blessed  be  the  good  providence  of  God,  Who,  in 
great  compassion  for  this  church  and  nation,  has 
hitherto  preserved  us  from  heresies  and  schisms. 

O  Lord,  continue  to  us  this  great  mercy,  and 
grant  that  we,  who  are  appointed  to  watch  over  Thy 
flock,  may  employ  our  learning  and  our  time  in  pro- 
moting of  true  piety  ;  that  we  may  never  grow  secure 
and  careless,  but  that  we  may  endeavour  to  secure 
the  power,  as  well  as  the  form  of  godliness. 

Have  pity  upon  all  Christian  churches,  that  are 
distracted  by  contending  parties,  and  reduce  all  that 
wander  out  of  the  way. 


6- 


o o 

'  TUESDAY    MEDITATIONS.  103 

Enable  us  to  preserve  this  church  in  peace  and 
unity,  by  all  means  becoming  the  spirit  of  the  gospel. 

Keep  us  steadfast  in  the  faith,  that  we  may  never 
be  tossed  about  with  any  wind  of  doctrine,  or  the 
craft  of  men. 

Let  the  zeal  and  industry  of  those  that  are  in  error 
provoke  us  to  be  zealously  affected  in  a  righteous 
cause  ;  in  labouring  to  make  men  good,  and  in  con- 
verting sinners  from  the  error  of  their  ways ;  which 
God  grant  for  Jesus  Christ's  sake.     Amen. 

Sed  et  ipsum  Episcopum  (quantum  per  arduas 
occupationes  licuerit)  summo  studio  contendere,  ut 
docendo,  persuadendo,  modisque  blandis  et  benignis 
omnibus,  turn  dictos  recusantes,  turn  omnes  infra 
suam  diocesin  sic  affectos,  a  suis  eroribus  deducat.* 

''  The  time  will  come  when  they  will  not  endure 
sound  doctrine,  but  after  their  own  lusts  shall  they 
heap  to  themselves  teachers,  having  itching  ears." — 
2  Timothy  iv.  3. 

N.  B.  We  are  now  in  these  sad  times,  and  it  be- 
hoves all  faithful  Pastors  to  know  it.  It  is  not  the 
doctrine  of  the  gospel,  if  it  favour  men's  lusts.  They 
that  will  not  receive,  or  who  reject  the  truth,  are 
often  judicially  punished  with  a  greediness  to  receive 
errors,  falsehoods,  and  fables. 

"  Watch  thou  in  all  things,  endure  afflictions, 
make  full  proof  of  (or  fulfil)  thy  ministry." — 2  Timo- 
thy iv.  5. 

He  that  is  wanting  in  any  essential  part  is  want- 
ing to  his  own  salvation. 

*  Can.  Ixvi.  Eccles.  Angl. 

6 O 


o 9 

104  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

Lord,  Thou  art  just  in  all  the  troubles  which 
Thou  hast  brought  upon  this  church  and  nation  :  yet, 
O  Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us,  and  restore  to  us  that 
peace  and  unity  which  we  once  enjoyed. 

''  By  their  fruits  ye  shall  know  them." — Matthew 
vii.  20. 

This  rule,  though  given  by  Christ  Himself,  is 
seldom  observed.  The  best  fruits  are  counted  as 
nothing,  are  overlooked,  and  often  condemned  by 
those  who  have  none  good  to  show.  Hence  all  the 
evils  the  church  suffers. 

"  But  while  men  slept,  his  enemy  came  and  sowed 
tares  amonor  the  wheat." — Matthew  xiii.  25. 

O  Jesu,  awaken  the  pastors  of  Thy  flock,  and 
open  their  eyes,  that  they  may  perceive  the  tares 
which  choke  the  seed,  the  wolves  which  destroy  Thy 
sheep. 

A  mixture  of  good  and  bad  in  the  church  is 
necessary  to  instruct,  exercise,  purify,  sanctify,  and 
keep  the  righteous  in  humility. 

"  Nay,  lest  while  ye  gather  up  the  tares,  ye  root 
up  also  the  wheat  with  them," — Matthew  xiii.  29. 

A  zeal  not  regulated  by  this  prohibition  allows 
no  time  to  the  good  to  grow  strong  in  goodness,  or 
to  the  wicked  to  forsake  their  evil  ways ;  but  chooses 
rather  to  destroy  the  good,  provided  they  can  but 
destroy  the  bad. 

"  I  have  a  few  things  against  thee,  because  thou 
hast  there  them  that  hold  the  doctrine  of  Balaam,  who 
taught  Balak  to  cast  a  stumbling-block  before  the 
children  of  Israel,  to  eat  things  sacrificed  unto  idols, 

O ' 6 


Q 

TUESDAY   MEDITATIONS.  105 

and  to  commit  fornication.  Thou  sufferest  that 
woman  Jezebel  to  teach  and  to  seduce  my  servants 
to  commit  fornication." — Revelations  ii.  14,  20. 

How  dreadful  is  the  government  of  the  church, 
wherein  a  man  must  answer  for  those  sins  which  he 
does  not  hinder ! 

To  tolerate  by  silence  those  who  favour  and  pro- 
mote sin,  Jesus  Christ  rebukes  in  the  persons  of  these 
bishops. 

O  my  Saviour  !  Thou  who  givest  me  this  warn- 
ing, enable  me  to  profit  by  it.  Assist  me,  in  this  day 
of  trial,  effectually  to  oppose  and  suppress  that  spirit 
of  impurity,  idolatry,  profaneness,  and  irreligion, 
which  is  broken  in  upon  us. 

If  for  fear  of  offending  men,  or  from  a  false  love 
of  peace,  we  forbear  to  defend  the  truth,  we  betray 
and  abandon  it. 

"  And  when  he  had  said  these  things,  the  Jews 
had  great  reasonings  among  themselves." — Acts 
xxviii.  29. 

A  preacher  of  the  truth  is  not  to  be  blamed  for 
the  contests  which  it  gives  occasion  to  carnal  men  to 
raise.  Even  Christ  Himself  could  not  preach  with- 
out disturbing  sinners ;  and  if  He  came  not  to  bring 
peace  on  earth,  but  a  sword  of  division,  His  ministers 
ought  to  expect  to  do  the  same. 

It  is  not  by  the  heat  of  disputation,  but  by  the 
gentleness  of  charity,  that  souls  are  gained  over  to 
God. 

And  when  controversy  is  necessary,  as  sometimes 
it  is,  let  it  never  be  managed  with  harshness,  bitter- 

5* 

6-__ — „_™_ — o 


o —9 

106  SACK  A    PRIVATA. 

ness,  or  severity,  lest  it  exasperate  and  harden,  more 
than  convert  and  edify. 

A  prudent  condescension  has  often  prevailed  upon 
the  weak,  and  rendered  them  capable  of  hearkening 
to  reason,  when  the  contrary  conduct  would  have 
removed  them  farther  from  the  light. 

We  ought  to  avoid  evil  men  and  seducers,  in 
order  to  shame  them  ;  to  deprive  them  of  that  credit 
whereby  they  may  do  hurt;  to  make  them  to  return 
to  a  right  mind ;  and  that  we  may  avoid  the  snare 
ourselves. 

DISPUTES. 


The  primitive  fathers  were  ever  modest  upon 
religious  questions.  They  contented  themselves  with 
resolving  such  questions  as  were  proposed  to  them, 
without  starting  new  ones  ;  and  carefully  suppressed 
the  curious,  restless  temper. 

May  I  receive  from  Thee,  O  God,  at  all  times, 
the  rules  of  my  behaviour  on  these  occasions. 

God  judges  otherwise  than  we  do  of  these  things. 
He  knows  the  good  He  intends  to  bring  out  of  evil, 
either  for  the  sanctification  of  the  righteous,  or  con- 
version of  the  wicked,  by  His  goodness  in  bearing 
with  them,  or  leaving  them  without  excuse. 

One  single  soul  is  worth  the  utmost  pains  of  the 
greatest  minister  of  Christ.  But  then  let  us  take 
care,  when  it  is  brought  into  the  fold,  that  he  be  a 
better  Christian  than  before,  that  he  be  not  twofold 
more  the  child  of  hell  than  before. 


6- 


i 


{6 9 

TUESDAY    MEDITATIONS.  107 


THE  LORD'S  PRAYER  PARAPHRASED. 

OUR    FATHER,    WHICH    ART    IN    HEAVEN. 

May  we  ever  love,  and  serve,  and  fear  Thee,  not 
as  slaves,  but  as  children. 

We  depend  upon  Thy  fatherly  goodness,  to  do 
ever  what  is  best  for  us,  upon  Thy  wisdom  to  choose 
for  us,  and  upon  Thy  power  to  help  us. 

My  Father,  I  have  sinned  against  Heaven,  and  in 
Thy  sight,  and  am  not  worthy  to  be  called  Thy  son. 

Look  upon  us,  O  Father,  as  poor,  weak,  ignorant, 
froward,  and  helpless  children,  and  pity  us  according 
to  Thy  goodness,  for  Jesus  Christ's  sake,  the  Son  of 
Thy  love. 

As  a  father  pitieth  his  own  children,  so  the  Lord 
pitieth  them  that  fear  Him. 

Be  ye  followers  of  God,  as  dear  children.* 

Li  this  the  children  of  God  are  manifest,  and  the 
children  of  the  devil.  Whoever  doth  not  righteous- 
ness, is  not  of  God.t 

As  He  that  hath  called  you  is  holy,  so  be  ye  holy 
in  all  manner  of  conversation.^ 

Blameless  as  the  sons  of  God,  in  the  midst  of  a 
crooked  and  perverse  nation.  || 

What  love,  O  God,  is  due  from  us  to  Thee,  for  so 
much  love  to  us? 

*  Ephesians  V.  1.  f  1  Jo^ii  i"*  t  1  Peter  i.  [J  Phil.  ii.  15. 

6 : O 


0 o 

108  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

HALLOWED    BE    THY    NAME. 

O  that  I,  and  all  His  children,  may  give  the  Lord 
the  honour  due  unto  His  name,  which  is  great,  won- 
derful, and  holy. 

Increase  the  number  and  the  graces  of  all  such 
as  love,  and  fear,  and  honour  Thy  holy  name. 

May  Thou,  O  heavenly  Father,  have  the  glory  of 
saving  a  miserable  sinner,  such  as  I  have  been. 

O  that  we  may  glorify  Thy  name,  by  walking  be- 
fore Thee  in  righteousness  and  holiness  all  our  days. 

That  men  may  see  your  good  works,  and  glorify 
your  Father  which  is  in  heaven,  do  all  to  the  praise 
and  glory  of  God.  A  son  honoureth  his  father,  and 
a  servant  his  master.  If  I  be  a  father,  where  is  my 
honour ;  if  I  be  a  master,  where  is  my  fear  ?* 

In  this  my  Father  is  glorified,  that  ye  bring  forth 
much  fruit. t 

May  we  thus  glorify  Thee,  O  heavenly  Father ; 
not  only  with  our  lips,  but  in  our  lives,  walking  be- 
fore Thee  in  righteousness  and  holiness  all  our  days. 

Holy,  holy,  holy,  Lord  God  Almighty,  which  was, 
and  is,  and  is  to  come. 

May  the  end  of  all  our  designs  and  actions  be  to 
the  glory  of  God. 

THY    KINGDOM    COME. 

O  that  the  saving  laws  of  Thy  kingdom  may  be 
received  in  all  the  world. 

*  Malaclii  i.  6.  t  Jo^i"  xv.  8. 

O O 


Q— O 

'  TUESDAY    MEDITATIONS.  109 

Take  possession  of  my  heart,  O  King  of  heaven, 
and  subdue  whatever  is  amiss  in  me. 

Make  me  instrumental  in  promoting  the  interests 
of  Thy  kingdom,  zealous  in  advancing  Thy  honour, 
and  the  welfare  of  all  Thy  subjects. 

Do  Thou,  O  King  of  saints,  establish  Thy  king- 
dom of  grace  in  all  our  hearts,  that  we  may  be  Thy 
subjects  out  of  choice,  and  ever  yield  Thee  willing 
obedience. 

Rebuke  all  the  enemies  of  Thy  kingdom,  all  such 
as  would  not  have  Thee  to  reign  over  them. 

May  the  heathen  fear  Thy  name,  O  God,  and  all 
the  kings  of  the  earth  Thy  Majesty. 

May  all  that  own  Thee  for  their  King,  become 
Thy  faithful  subjects. 

Bless  the  pious  endeavours  of  all  such  as  strive 
to  propagate  the  Gospel  of  Christ  ;  and  may  its 
saving  truths  be  received  in  all  the  world. 

Deliver  the  world,  O  Jesus,  in  Thy  good  time, 
from  the  tyranny  of  Satan,  that  all  nations  may  obey 
and  glorify  Thy  holy  name. 

O  that  Satan  may  never  set  up  his  kingdom  in 
this  place. 

O  God,  recover  Thy  whole  right  and  dominion 
over  my  soul,  and  rule  in  me  by  Thy  holy,  all-power- 
ful Spirit. 

Set  up,  O  God,  Thy  throne  in  our  hearts,  and 
reign  for  ever  and  ever. 

THY  WILL  BE  DONE  IN  EARTH,  AS  IT  IS  IN  HEAVEN. 

O  heavenly  Father,  give  us  light  to  see,  a  heart 

^ O 


_ — o 

110  SACRA    PRIYATA. 

to  close  with,  and  a  power  to  do  Thy  will  at  all 
times. 

Grant  that  we  may  cheerfully  accomplish  those 
things  which  Thou  wouldest  have  done,  through  Jesus 
Christ. 

Subdue  in  us  that  natural  aversion  which  we  have 
to  do  Thy  holy  will,  O  God. 

May  Thy  will  made  known  in  Thy  threatenings 
and  promises,  have  its  saving  effects  upon  our  hearts. 

Keep  our  minds  in  such  a  temper,  that  we  may 
close  with  Thy  will  whenever  it  is  made  known  to  us. 

Not  my  will,  but  Thine  be  done.* 

It  is  the  Lord,  let  him  do  what  seemeth  Him 
good.f 

I  was  dumb,  and  opened  not  my  mouth,  because 
it  was  Thy  doing.J 

Thou  art  righteous  in  all  Thy  ways,  and  holy  in 
all  Thy  works. 

Keep  us,  O  Lord,  from  having  our  own  wills  when- 
ever they  are  not  agreeable  to  Thine. 

Grant  that  we  may  be  filled  with  the  knowledge  of 
Thy  will  in  all  wisdom  and  spiritual  understanding.  1| 

We  adore  Thy  goodness  in  making  Thy  will 
known  to  us,  and  the  way  to  attain  everlasting  life. 

May  we  never  question  the  goodness  of  Thy  will 
and  choices,  but  ever  close  with  Thy  will,  as  the  best 
that  can  be  ordered  for  ourselves  or  others. 

What  are  we,  that  we  should  make  exceptions 


*  Luke  xxii.  42.  f  Samuel  iii.  18.  J  Ps.  xxxix.  10. 

Ij  Colossians  i.  9. 

6 o 


o — o 

TUESDAY    MEDITATIONS.  Ill 

against  the  will  of  a  God  infinitely  wise,  and  just,  and 
good? 

GIVE    US    THIS    DAY    OUR    DAILY    BREAD. 

Give  us  grace,  that  we  may  never  use  any  unlaw- 
ful ways  to  get  our  daily  bread. 

That  we  may  be  content  and  thankful  for  our 
present  condition,  to  which,  as  sinners,  we  have  no 
right. 

O  that  we  may  seek  Thy  kingdom,  and  the  right- 
eousness thereof,  and  then  we  are  sure  we  shall  want 
nothing  that  is  necessary  for  this  life.  We  will  cast 
all  our  care  upon  Thee,  for  Thou  carest  for  us. 

Having  food  and  raiment,  let  us  be  therewith  con- 
tent.* 

We  beseech  Thee,  O  Father,  not  for  ourselves 
only,  but  for  all  our  brethren. 

Thou,  O  heavenly  Father,  knowest  what  we  have 
need  of. 

AND    FORGIVE    US    OUR   TRESPASSES,    AS    WE    FORGIVE 
THEM    THAT    TRESPASS    AGAINST    US. 

O  that  we  may  be  kindly  affectioned  one  towards 
another,  tender-hearted,  forgiving  one  another,  even 
as  God,  for  Christ's  sake,  hath  forgiven  us.t 

May  we  ever  remember  Thy  goodness,  Thy  mer- 
cy, Thy  patience  towards  us,  and  the  multitude  of 

*  1  Timothy  vi.  8.                        t  Ephesians  iv.  3. 
L, -^ ^ — ~- O 


o o 

112  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

our  offences  against  Thee,  that  we  may,  from  our 
hearts,  foro-ive  all  that  have  offended  us. 

Grant,  O  God,  that  I  make  all  my  prayers  in  the 
spirit  of  love  and  charity. 

O  that  that  mercy  and  pardon,  which  we  hope 
for  from  Thee,  may  lead  us  to  forgive  all  that  have 
injured  or  offended  us. 

Give  us  grace  to  imitate  Thy  goodness,  that  we 
may  forgive,  and  give,  and  love,  as  becomes  the  dis- 
ciples of  Jesus  Christ. 

Even  the  power  to  perform  this  must  be  from  Thy 
grace. 

"  Even  as  Christ  forgave  you,  so  also  do  ye." — 
Colossians  iii.  13. 

"  If  ye  forgive  men  their  trespasses,  your  heaven- 
ly Father  will  also  forgive  you.  But  if  ye  forgive  not 
men  their  trespasses,  neither  will  your  Father  for- 
give your  trespasses." — Matthew  vi.  14,  15. 

"  Judge  not,  and  ye  shall  not  be  judged.  Con- 
demn not,  and  ye  shall  not  be  condemned. — Forgive, 
and  ye  shall  be  forgiven. — Give,  and  it  shall  be  given 
unto  you.  For  with  the  same  measure  that  ye  mete 
withal,  it  shall  be  measured  to  you  again." — Luke  vi. 

Thou,  O  God,  art  all  mercy  towards  us,  O  make 
us  all  so  to  one  another,  for  Thy  sake,  and  for  our 
own. 

We  beseech  Thee  for  all  that  are  our  enemies, 
not  for  judgment  and  vengeance,  but  for  mercy,  for 
the  remission  of  their  sins,  and  for  their  eternal  hap- 
piness. 

O O 


o c 

TUESDAY    MEDITATIONS.  113 

AND  LEAD  US   NOT   INTO   TEMPTATION.       BUT    DELIVER 
US    FROM    EVIL. 

May  we  never  provoke  Thee  to  withdraw  Thy 
grace,  and  permit  us  to  be  tempted  above  what  we 
are  able  to  bear. 

Give  us,  O  heavenly  Father,  grace  to  flee  from 
all  occasions  of  sin,  and  be  not  wanting  to  us  in  the 
hour  of  temptation.  Leave  us  not  to  ourselves,  and 
to  our  own  choices. 

Enable  us  to  make  the  right  use  of  all  Thy  trials, 
and  to  profit  by  them. 

Restrain  the  power  of  Satan,  and  the  many  temp- 
tations we  are  liable  to,  and  grant  that  we  may  never 
be  found  from  under  Thy  protection. 

In  all  temptations,  we  beseech  Thee,  O  heavenly 
Father,  to  succour  us,  that  no  sin  may  ever  get  the 
dominion  over  us. 

Let  not  our  faith  fail  us  in  the  day  of  temptation 

and  trial. 

Thou,  O  Lord,  only  knowest  how  to  deliver  the 

godly  out  of  temptation. 

FOR  THINE  IS  THE  KINGDOM,  AND  THE  POWER,  AND 
THE  GLORY,  FOR  EVER  AND  EVER.   AMEN. 

May  all  that  own  Thee  for  their  King,  become 
Thy  faithful  subjects. 

By  Thine  Almighty  power  subdue  whatever  is 
amiss  in  us. 

To  the  King  eternal,  immortal,  invisible,  the  only 

0 O 


o- 


114 


SACRA    PRIVATA. 


I 


wise  God,  be  honour  and  glory  for  ever  and  ever. 
Amen.* 

Holy,   holy,  holy,   is  the  Lord  of  Hosts.      The 
whole  earth  is  full  of  His  glory. t 

Let  my  whole  dependence  be  upon  Thee,  and 
Thy  grace,  O  heavenly  Father. 

To  Thee,  O  King  of  Heaven,  we  pray ;  on  Thee 
we  depend ;  for  Thou  only  hast  power  to  help  and 
defend  us.  To  Thee,  therefore,  we  give  the  glory  of" 
all  the  blessings  we  enjoy  or  hope  for  in  this  world, 
or  in  the  world  to  come,  through  Jesus  Christ  our 
Saviour.     Amen. 


*  1  Timothy  i.  17. 


f  Isaiah  vi.  3. 


o- 


-o 


o- 


0 


WEDNESDAY    MEDITATIOIS. 

SOBER  LIFE. 


Question  from  the  Office  of  Co-nsecration. — Will  you  deny  all  ungodliness  and 
worldly  lusts,  and  live  soberly,  righteously,  and  godly,  in  this  present 
world,  that  you  may  show  yourself  in  all  things  an  example  of  good 
works  unto  others,  that  the  adversary  may  be  ashamed,  having  nothing 
to  say  against  you  ? 

Aiiswer. — I  will  so  do,  the  Lord  being  my  helper. 

Almighty  God,  who  hast  made  me  a  guide  to 
others,  suffer  me  not  to  go  astray  myself;  give  me 
grace  that  I  may  never  follow  the  inclinations  of  cor- 
rupted nature,  nor  govern  myself  according  to  the 
maxims  of  an  evil  world  ;  but  give  me  the  spirit,  as 
well  as  the  character,  of  a  minister  of  Jesus  Christ. 

O  Holy  Spirit  of  Grace,  sanctify  my  heart,  that 
no  base  or  impure  thoughts,  no  mean  and  covetous 
affections,  may  lodge  there.  Govern  my  tongue,  that 
no  corrupt  communication  may  proceed  out  of  my 
mouth. 

Guard  my  eyes,  purify  my  hands,  guide  my  feet. 
Conduct  my  whole  life,  that  by  all  instances  of  a  good 


O- 


o — o. 

116  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

example,  I  may  lead  the  people  committed  to  my  care 
in  the  ways  of  truth,  and  of  eternal  life ;  and  that  no 
irregularity  in  my  conversation  may  ever  make  my 
instructions  ineffectual,  or  the  ways  of  religion  to  be 
evil  spoken  of 

O  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  without  whom  we  can  do 
nothing,  be  Thou  my  advocate  with  God,  as  well  as 
my  example,  that  I  may  live  and  be  as  Thou  wouldest 
have  me.     Amen. 

"  I  keep  under  my  body,  and  bring  it  into  sub- 
jection, lest  by  any  means,  when  I  have  preached  to 
others,  I  myself  should  be  a  cast-away." — 1  Corinthi- 
ans ix.  27. 

When  a  man  has  given  himself  to  the  immediate 
service  of  God,  he  is  no  longer  at  liberty  to  follow 
his  own  inclinations,  whether  in  study,  profit,  recrea- 
tion, &c. 

"  They  that  are  Christ's  have  crucified  the  flesh 
with  the  affections  and  lusts." — Galatians  v.  24. 

Nature  is  content  with  a  little,  grace  with  less. 

*'  Who  is  a  wise  man,  let  him  show  out  of  a  good 
conversation  his  works  with  meekness  of  wisdom  ;" 
(James  iii.  13,)  that  is,  let  him  show  his  wisdom  in 
his  life. 

Temperance  consists  in  neither  eating  nor  drink- 
ing more  than  is  necessary,  and  in  not  seeking  for 
exquisite  dainties  and  liquors.* 

*  Julian  Pomerius. 

o 


WEDNESDAY    MEDITATIONS.  117 

''  A  man's  attire,  excessive  laughter,  and  gait, 
show  what  he  is." — Eccles.  xix.  30. 

"  But  ye  are  departed  out  of  the  way ;  ye  have 
caused  many  to  stumble  at  the  law ;  ye  have  corrupt- 
ed the  covenant  of  Levi,  saith  the  Lord  of  Hosts  ; 
therefore  have  I  made  you  contemptible  and  base 
before  all  the  people ;  according  as  ye  have  not  kept 
my  ways,  but  have  been  partial  in  the  law,"  &c. — 
Malachi  ii.  8,  9. 

O  good  Lord,  keep  Thy  servant  from  bringing 
contempt  upon  the  Clergy,  by  any  irregularity  or 
fault  of  mine. 

"  Let  no  man  despise  thee." — Titus  ii.  15. 

That  is ;  demean  thyself  agreeable  to  the  author- 
ity which  thou  hast  received  from  Jesus  Christ,  not 
making  thy  office  contemptible  by  any  mean  action, 
but  act  with  the  dignity  of  one  who  stands  in  the 
place  of  God. 

They  that  recommend  eternal  possessions  and 
happiness  to  others,  ought  to  show,  that  they  are 
verily  persuaded  themselves  of  the  vanity  of  all  earth- 
ly enjoyments,  avoiding  superfluities,  and  not  being 
over  concerned  for  necessaries.  Jesus  Christ  thus 
preached  the  contempt  of  the  world,  by  contemning 
it  himself 

"  Which  of  you  convinceth  me  of  sin  ?" — John 
viii.  46. 

O  Jesus,  the  only  Priest  free  from  all  sin,  make 
me,  Thy  servant,  as  blameless  and  holy  as  the  frailty 
of  my  nature  will  suffer  me  to  be. 

The  reputation  of  a  Minister  is  not  his  own  but 

O O 


O Q 

118  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

the  Church's,  as  the  reputation  of  an  ambassador  is 
his  prince's. 

"  If  the  priest  that  is  anointed  do  sin  according 
to  the  sin  of  the  people ;  then  let  him  bring  a  sin 
offering." — Leviticus  iv.  3. 

N.  B,  That  the  same  sin  in  a  single  priest,  is  to 
have  as  great  a  sacrifice  as  a  sin  of  the  whole  people 
of  Israel. 

The  flesh  never  thrives  but  at  the  cost  of  the 
soul. 

Let  us  ever  remember,  that  mortification  must  go 
further  than  the  body. 

Self-love,  pride,  envy,  jealousy,  hatred,  malice, 
avarice,  ambition,  must  all  be  mortified,  by  avoiding 
and  ceasing  from  the  occasions  of  them. 

The  sobriety  of  the  soul  consists  in  humility,  and 
in  being  content  vv^ith  necessaries. 

O  Thou,  who  hast  made  me  a  servant  in  Thy 
house,  give  me  grace  that  I  may  never  dishonour 
Thy  service. 

FAILINGS  OP    GOOD  MEN. 

God  permits  these,  that  we  may  plainly  see  that 
there  is  no  person   in  whom  nature  is  not  corrupted. 

A  man  may  hide  from  the  world  some  of  his  good 
works  ;  but  a  Christian  life  ought  to  be  seen  ;  it  is  a 
public  testimony  which  we  owe  to  our  faith,  and  an 
example  which  Christianity  requires  of  us.  *'  Let 
your  light  so  shine  before  men,  that  they  may  see 
your  good  works,  and  glorify  your  Father  which  is  in 
heaven." — Matthew  v.  16. 

6 o 


— o 

WEDNESDAY    MEDITATIONS.  119 

It  is  not  only  in  the  church  that  a  minister  of 
Christ  should  be  mindful  of  his  character,  but  in  his 
converse  with  the  world. 

"If thou  givest  thy  soul  the  desires  that  please 
her,  she  will  make  thee  a  laughing-stock  to  thine  ene- 
mies that  malign  thee." — Ecclesiasticus  xviii.  31. 

"  He  that  resisteth  pleasures,  crowneth  his  life." — 
Ecclesiasticus  xix.  5. 

SELF-DENIAL. 

Vouchsafe  me,  gracious  God,  the  graces  of  mor- 
tification and  self-denial,  that  my  affections  and  flesh 
being  subdued  unto  the  Spirit,  and  my  heart  and  all 
my  members  being  mortified  from  all  carnal  and 
worldly  lusts,  I  may  ever  obey  Thy  blessed  will, 
through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 

"  If  any  man  will  come  after  Me,  let  him  deny 
himself,  and  take  up  his  cross,  and  follow  Me." — 
Matthew  xvi.  24. 

O  my  Saviour  !  let  me  not  profess  to  follow  Thee, 
without  complying  with  the  terms  which  Thou  re- 
quirest  of  them  that  desire  to  do  so  sincerely. 

"  Strait  is  the  gate,  and  narrow  is  the  way,  that 
leadeth  unto  life,  and  few  there  be  that  find  it." — 
Matthew  vii.  14. 

But  if  the  difficulties  of  a  holy  life  affright  us,  let 
us  consider,  who  can  dwell  with  everlasting  burn- 
ings ? 

All  mankind  being  under  the  sentence  of  death, 
certain  to  be  executed,  and  at  an  hour  we  know  not 

O O 


o 9 

120  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

of;  a  state  of  penance  and  self-denial,  of  being  dead 
and  crucified  to  the  world,  is  certainly  the  most  suit- 
able, the  most  liecoming  temper  that  we  can  be 
found  in,  when  that  sentence  comes  to  be  executed  ; 
that  is,  when  we  come  to  die. 

Especially  when  we  consider,  that  this  short  and 
uncertain  time,  allowed  us  betwixt  the  sentence  and 
execution,  will  determine  our  condition  for  eternity. 

If  this  be  the  case  of  fallen  man,  as  most  certainly 
it  is,  then  thoughtless  pleasure  is  the  greatest  inde- 
cency ;  a  fondness  for  the  world,  the  greatest  folly ; 
and  self-indulgence,  downright  madness. 

And  consequently,  the  contrary  to  these,  namely, 
a  constant  seriousness  of  temper,  an  universal  care 
and  exactness  of  life,  an  indifference  for  the  world, 
self-denial,  sobriety,  and  watchfulness,  must  be  our 
greatest  wisdom. 

And  this  discovers  to  us  the  reason  and  the  neces- 
sity of  all  the  duties  of  Christianity,  and  of  God's 
dealinors  with  fallen  man  in  this  state  of  trial. 

For  instance  : — Jesus  Christ  commands  us  to 
deny  ourselves,  and  to  take  up  our  cross  daily,  not 
because  He  can  command  what  lie  pleases,  (for  He 
is  infinite  goodness,  and  can  command  nothing  but 
what  is  good  for  his  creatures,)  but  because  the  cor- 
ruption of  our  nature  requires  that  we  should  be  for- 
bidden every  thing  which  would  increase  our  disorder. 

And  because  this  disorder  has  spread  itself  through 
all  the  powers  of  our  souls  and  bodies,  and  inclines  us 
to  evil  continually.  He  requires  that  our  self-denial 
should  reach  as  fiir  as  our  corruption. 

o 6 


o 

WEDNESDAY    MEDITATIONS.  121 

He  commands  us,  therefore,  to  deny  our  own 
wisdom,  because  we  are  really  blind  as  to  what  con- 
cerns our  own  true  good,  and  should  infallibly  ruin 
ourselves,  if  left  to  our  own  choices. 

He  commands  us  to  deny  our  appetites,  because 
intemperance  would  ruin  us. 

He  forbids  us  to  give  way  to  our  passions,  because 
a  thousand  evils  will  follow  if  we  should  do  so. 

He  obliges  us  to  keep  a  very  strict  watch  over  our 
hearts,  because  from  thence  proceed  hypocrisy, 
covetousness,  malice,  and  a  thousand  other  evils. 

We  are  forbid  to  set  our  hearts  upon  the  world, 
and  every  thing  in  it,  because  our  eternal  happiness 
depends  upon  loving  God  with  all  our  heart  and  soul. 

We  are  obliged  to  love  our  neighbour,  and  our 
very  enemies ;  and  are  forbid  to  hate,  to  contend,  to 
hurt,  to  go  to  law  with  him,  because  this  would  exas- 
perate our  minds,  and  grieve  the  Holy  Spirit  of  God 
by  which  we  are  sanctified,  being  against  that  charity 
which  God  delights  in. 

We  are  forbid  all  repining  when  God  afflicts  us, 
because,  as  sinners,  suffering  is  due  to  us.  And,  be- 
cause our  bodies  have  a  very  great  influence  over 
our  souls,  we  are  commanded  to  fast,  to  be  strictly 
temperate  at  all  times,  and  to  deny  ourselves  the  love 
of  sensual  pleasures  and  self-indulgence. 

We  are  commanded  to  deny  all  the  ways  of  folly, 
vanity,  and  false  satisfactions,  that  we  may  be  able  to 
take  satisfaction  and  pleasure  in  the  ways  of  God. 

In  short : — In  whatever  instances  we  are  com- 
manded  to  deny  ourselves,  it  is  because  it  is  abso- 

6 
O 3 O 


122  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

lutely  necessary,  either  to  cure  our  corruption  or  to 
qualify  us  for  the  grace  of  God,  or  to  hinder  us  from 
grieving  God's  Holy  Spirit,  and  forcing  Him  to  for- 
sake us. 

The  more  we  deny  ourselves,  the  freer  we  shall 
be  from  sin,  and  the  more  dear  to  God. 

God  appoints  us  to  sufferings,  that  we  may  keep 
close  to  Him,  and  that  we  may  value  the  sufferings 
of  His  Son,  which  we  should  have  but  a  low  notion 
of,  did  not  our  own  experience  teach  us  what  it  is  to 
suffer. 

They  that  deny  themselves  will  be  sure  to  find 
their  strength  increased,  their  affections  raised,  and 
their  inward  peace  continually  advanced. 

Had  there  been  any  better,  any  easier  way  to 
heaven,  Jesus  Christ  would  have  chosen  it  for  Him- 
self and  for  his  followers. 

The  more  you  love  God,  expect  you  must  give 
the  greater  proofs  of  it ;  and  you  may  expect  greater 
assistance  and  consolation. 

*'  Woe  unto  you  that  are  full,  for  ye  have  received 
your  consolation." — Luke  vi.  25. 

If  this  be  the  life  of  the  reprobate,  who  would  not 
dread  the  pleasures  of  a  prosperous  condition  ? 

"  Having  food  and  raiment,  let  us  be  therewith 
content." — 1   Timothy  vi.  8. 

Let  us  not  imagine  that  excess,  luxury,  and  super- 
fluity, and  the  love  of  pleasures,  are  less  criminal  be- 
cause they  are  so  common. 


O — — O 


0 — — o 

WEDNESDAY    MEDITATIONS.  123 

TAKE    UP    THE    CROSS. 

This  is  designed  as  a  peculiar  favour  to  Chris- 
tians, as  indeed  are  all  Christ's  commands.  Miseries 
are  the  unavoidable  portion  of  fallen  man. — All  the 
difference  is,  Christians  suffering  in  obedience  to  the 
will  of  God,  it  makes  them  easy :  unbelievers  suffer 
the  same  things,  but  with  an  uneasy  will  and  mind. 

To  follow  our  own  will,  our  passions,  and  our 
senses,  is  that  which  makes  us  miserable.  It  is  for 
this  reason,  and  that  we  may  have  a  remedy  for  all 
our  evils,  that  Jesus  Christ  obliges  us  to  submit  our 
will,  our  passions,  &lc.,  to  God. 

The  good  Christian  is  not  one  who  has  no  incli- 
nation to  sin,  (for  we  have  all  the  seed  of  sin  in  us,) 
but  who,  being  sensible  of  such  inclinations,  denieth 
them  continually,  and  suffers  them  not  to  grow  into 
evil  actions. 

No  pleasure  can  be  innocent  which  hinders  us 
from  minding  our  salvation. 

We  need  but  taste  any  pleasure  a  very  little  while, 
to  become  a  slave  to  it. 

The  only  way  to  overcome  our  corrupt  affections, 
is  absolutely  to  deny  their  cravings. 

We  have  reason  to  suspect  every  doctrine  which 
would  teach  us  to  avoid  sin  without  suffering,  since 
the  Holy  Scriptures  speak  so  much  of  self-denial,  of 
the  difficulty  of  working  out  our  salvation. 

Self-denial  is  absojutely  necessary  to  prepare  us 
to  receive  the  grace  of  God ;  it  was  therefore  neces- 

O O 


o- 


124  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

sary  that  John  the  Baptist  should  prepare  the  way, 
by  preaching  repentance  and  self-denial. 

Men  need  not  be  at  pains  to  go  to  hell ;  if  they 
will  not  deny  themselves,  if  they  make  no  resistance, 
they  will  go  there  of  course. 

It  will  be  great  presumption  to  go  to  the  utmost 
bounds  of  what  is  allowed,  because  the  bounds  which 
separate  what  is  allowed  and  forbidden,  are  often  not 
perceived. 

One  does  not  begin  to  fall,  when  the  fall  becomes 
sensible. 

Diversions  are  too  apt  to  make  us  lose  the  remem- 
brance of  the  dangers  that  encompass  us,  which  is 
the  ready  way  to  ruin,  fear  being  as  necessary  as  any 
other  grace. 

Where  there  is  a  real  abhorrence  of  evil,  there 
will  be  a  proportionable  care  to  avoid  it. 

"  They  that  are  Christ's  have  crucified  the  flesh, 
with  the  affections  and  lusts."  This  is  the  only  true 
test  of  being  truly  Christians. 

Afflictions  may  make  men  esteem  us  less ;  but 
God  loves  us  the  more  for  them,  if  we  bear  them 
with  resignation  ;  which  if  we  do,  it  is  a  certain 
sign  of  His  grace  and  care  of  us. 

The  yoke  of  Christ  is  not  only  safer,  but  even 
easier  than  that  liberty  we  are  naturally  fond  of. — It 
makes  the  practice  of  virtue  pleasant ;  frees  us  from 
the  violence  of  corruption,  from  being  ruined  by  false 
pleasures. 

Crosses  make  death  less  frightful.  And  indeed, 
he  that  will  not  obey  Jesus  Christ,  must  obey  his  own 


-O 


O o 

WEDNESDAY    MEDITATIONS.  125 

passions,  the  world,  its  customs,  humours,  which  are 
the  worst  of  tyrants,  and  downright  slavery. 

Every  day  deny  yourself  some  satisfaction  ;  your 
eyes,  objects  of  mere  curiosity  ;  your  tongue,  every 
thing  that  may  feed  vanity,  or  vent  enmity  ;  the  palate, 
dainties ;  the  ears,  flattery,  and  whatever  corrupts  the 
heart ;  the  body,  ease  and  luxury ;  bearing  all  the 
inconveniences  of  life,  (for  the  love  of  God,)  cold, 
hunger,  restless  nights,  ill  health,  unwelcome  news, 
the  faults  of  servants,  contempt,  ingratitude  of  friends, 
malice  of  enemies,  calumnies,  our  own  failings,  low- 
ness  of  spirits,  the  struggle  in  overcoming  our  cor- 
ruptions ;  bearing  all  these  with  patience  and  resig- 
nation to  the  will  of  God.  Do  all  this  as  unto  God, 
with  the  greatest  privacy. 

All  ways  are  indifferent  to  one  who  has  heaven  in 
his  eye,  as  a  traveller  does  not  choose  the  pleasantest, 
but  the  shortest  and  safest  way  to  his  journey's  end ; 
and  that  is,  if  we  were  to  choose  for  ourselves,  the 
way  of  the  cross,  which  Jesus  Christ  made  choice  of, 
and  sanctified  it  to  all  his  followers. 

It  being  much  more  easy  to  prevent  than  to  mor- 
tify a  lust,  a  prudent  Christian  will  set  a  guard  upon 
his  senses.  One  unguarded  look  betrayed  David. 
Job  made  a  covenant  with  his  eyes :  "  Evil  commu- 
nications corrupt  good  manners."* 

Sensuality  unfits  us  for  the  joys  of  heaven. 

If  that  concupiscence  which  opposes  virtue  be 
lessened,  a  less  degree  of  grace  will  secure  our  inno- 
cence. 

*  1  Corinthians  xv.  33. 

6 6 


O 9 

126  SACRA    PRIVATA, 

All  ways  are  indifferent  to  one  who  has  heaven  in 
his  eye. 

Self-denial  has  respect  to  the  good  estate  of  the 
soul,  as  it  hinders  her  from  being  carried  away  to  the 
lower  pleasures  of  sense,  that  she  may  relish  heavenly 
pleasures. 

''The  Son  of  Man  has  not  where  to  lay  his  head." 
— Matthew  viii.  20. 

This  should  fill  us  with  confusion,  whenever  we 
are  overmuch  concerned  for  the  conveniences  of  life. 

Our  affections  being  very  strongly  inclined  to 
sensible  good,  for  the  sake  of  which  we  are  often 
tempted  to  evil,  and  fall  into  great  disorders,  we 
should  resolve  to  sacrifice  our  will  to  reason,  and  rea- 
son to  the  word  of  God. 

God  does  not  require  it  of  us,  that  we  should  not 
feel  any  uneasiness  under  the  cross,  but  that  we 
should  strive  to  overcome  it  by  His  grace. 

VIRTUES    OF    A    HOLY    LIFE. 

Fervency  in  devotion  ;  frequency  in  prayer  ;  aspir- 
ing after  the  love  of  God  continually  ;  striving  to  get 
above  the  world  and  the  body ;  loving  silence  and 
solitude,  as  far  as  one's  condition  will  permit ;  hum- 
ble and  affable  to  all ;  patient  in  suffering  affronts  and 
contradictions;  glad  of  occasions  of  doing  good  even 
to  enemies  ;  doing  the  will  of  God,  and  promoting 
his  honour  to  the  utmost  of  one's  power  ;  resolving 
never  to  offend  him  willingly,  for  any  temporal  plea- 
sure, profit,  or  loss.  These  are  virtues  highly  pleasing 
to  God. 

O 


0 

WEDNESDAY    MEDITATIONS.  127 

There  is  no  pleasure  comparable  to  the  not  being 
captivated  by  any  external  thing  whatever. 

Self-denial  does  not  consist  in  fasting  and  other 
mortifications  only,  but  in  an  indifference  for  the  world, 
its  profits,  pleasures,  honours,  and  its  other  idols. 

It  is  a  part  of  special  prudence,  never  to  do  any 
thing  because  one  has  an  inclination  to  it;  but 
because  it  is  one's  duty,  or  it  is  reasonable  ;  for  he 
who  follows  his  inclination  because  he  wills,  in  one 
thing,  will  do  it  in  another. 

He  that  will  not  command  his  thoughts  and  his 
will,  will  soon  lose  the  command  of  his  actions. 

Always  suspect  yourself,  when  your  inclinations 
are  strong  and  importunate. 

It  is  necessary  that  we  deny  ourselves  in  little  and 
indifferent  things,  when  reason  and  conscience,  which 
is  the  voice  of  God,  suggests  it  to  us,  as  ever  we  hope 
to  get  the  rule  over  our  own  will. 

Say  not,  it  is  a  trifle,  and  not  fit  to  make  a  sacri- 
fice of  to  God.  He  that  will  not  sacrifice  a  little 
affection  will  hardly  offer  a  greater.  It  is  not  the 
thing,  but  the  reason  and  manner  of  doing  it,  name- 
ly, for  God's  sake,  and  that  I  may  accustom  myself  to 
obey  His  voice,  that  God  regards,  and  rewards  with 
greater  degrees  of  grace  !* 

**  Even  Jesus  Christ  pleased  not  Himself" — 
Romans  xv,  3.  As  appears  in  the  meanness  of  His 
birth,  relations,  form  of  a  servant,  the  company  He 
kept,  His  life,  death,  &.c. 

The  greater   your    self-denial,    the   firmer    your 

*  Life  of  Mr.  Bonnel,  p.  12-2. 

o 


9 Q 

128  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

faith,  and  more  acceptable  to  God.  The  sincere 
devotion  of  the  rich,  the  ahns  of  the  poor,  the  humil- 
ity of  the  great,  the  faith  of  such  whose  condition  is 
desperate,  the  contemning  the  world  when  one  can 
command  it  at  pleasure,  continuing  instant  in  prayer 
even  when  we  want  the  consolation  we  expected ; 
these,  and  such  like  instances  of  self-denial,  God 
will  greatly  reward. 

They  who  imagine  that  self-denial  intrenches 
upon  our  liberty,  do  not  know  that  it  is  this  only  that 
can  make  us  free  indeed,  giving  us  the  victory  over 
ourselves,  setting  us  free  from  the  bondage  of  our 
corruption,  enabling  us  to  bear  afflictions,  (which 
will  come  one  time  or  other,)  to  foresee  them  without 
amazement,  enlightening  the  mind,  sanctifying  the 
will,  and  making  us  to  slight  those  baubles  which 
others  so  eagerly  contend  for. 

Mortification  consists  in  such  a  sparing  use  of 
the  creatures,  as  may  deaden  our  love  for  them,  and 
make  us  more  indifferent  in  the  enjoyment  of  them. 
This  lessens  the  weight  of  concupiscence,  which 
carries  us  to  evil,  and  so  makes  the  grace  of  God 
more  effectual  to  turn  the  balance  of  the  will.* 

It  is  the  greatest  mercy,  that  God  does  not  con- 
sult our  inclinations,  in  laying  upon  us  the  cross, 
which  is  the  only  way  to  happiness.  Jesus  Christ 
crucified  would  have  few  imitators,  if  God  did  not 
lay  it  upon  us,  by  the  hands  of  men,  and  by  His  pro- 
vidence. 

*  Noiris's  Christian  Prudence,  p.  300. 


— — o 

WEDNESDAY    MEDITATIONS.  129 

"  Let  him  deliver  him  now,  if  he  will  have  him." 
Matthew  xxvii.  43. 

Carnal  man  cannot  comprehend  that  God  loves 
those  whom  he  permits  to  suffer  ;  but  faith  teaches 
us,  that  the  cross  is  the  gift  of  His  love,  the  founda- 
tion of  our  hope,  the  mark  of  His  children,  and  the 
title  of  an  inheritance  in  heaven.  But  unless  God 
sanctify  it  by  His  Spirit,  it  becomes  an  insupportable 
burden,  a  subject  of  murmuring,  and  an  occasion  of 
sin. 

''  There  was  a  certain  rich  man,  which  was 
clothed  in  purple  and  fine  linen,  and  fared  sumptu- 
ously every  day,"  &lg. — Luke  xvi.  19. 

For  a  man  then  to  be  rich,  to  be  clothed  magni- 
ficently, to  fare  sumptuously,  and  to  take  no  care  of 
the  poor,  is  sufficient  to  send  him  to  hell,  because  he 
cannot  lead  a  Christian  life.  Repentance,  mortifica- 
tion, and  the  cross,  are  utterly  inconsistent  with  a 
soft,  sensual,  voluptuous  life  ;  the  desire  of  happiness, 
with  the  love  of  this  present  life. 

It  is  therefore  a  most  miserable  state,  for  a  man 
to  have  every  thing  according  to  his  desire,  and 
quietly  to  enjoy  the  pleasures  of  life.  There  needs 
no  more  to  expose  him  to  eternal  misery. 

"  He  that  loveth  his  life,  shall  lose  it ;  and  he 
that  liateth  his  life  in  this  world  shall  keep  it  unto 
life  eternal." — John  xii.  25. 

He  that  loveth  life  (that  is,  is  fond  of  it)  for  the 
sake  of  the  pleasures,  advantages,  it  affords,  will  soon 
lose  the  love  of  heavenly  things  ;  the  love  of  God,  of 
his  soul,  and  of  the  duty  he  owes  to  them.     He  hates 

6* 

O O 


o- 


130  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

it,  who  does  not  value  it  in  comparison  of  eternal 
life,  which  he  hopes  for.  A  Christian  gives  proof  of 
this,  by  mortifying  himself;  a  Pastor,  in  spending  his 
life  in  the  works  of  the  ministry,  &.c. 

Those  whom  God  loves  in  order  to  a  happy  eter- 
nity, he  weans  from  the  pleasures  of  this  present  life. 

Temperance  consists  in  a  sober  use  of  all  earthly, 
visible  things,  and  in  confining  ourselves  within  the 
compass  of  what  is  necessary. 

"  With  God  all  things  are  possible." 

The  Almighty  God  enable  me  to  conquer  the 
temptations  of  riches,  and  to  get  above  the  allure- 
ments of  this  present  life. 

There  is  much  more  reason  for  a  man  to  humble 
himself,  on  account  of  his  self-denial,  than  to  boast 
of  it,  since  the  corruption  of  his  nature  is  so  great, 
that  he  cannot  follow  even  the  lawful  dictates  of 
nature,  without  hazarding  his  soul. 

Christian  self-denial  is,  to  resist  and  crucify  in 
ourselves  the  spirit  and  inclinations  of  Adam, — the 
flesh,  its  affections  and  lusts, — to  die  to  our  passions, 
in  order  to  follow  the  motions  of  the  Spirit. 

FASTING 

Necessary  to  bring  our  hearts  to  a  penitent,  holy, 
and  devout  temper  ;  and  to  perform  the  vows  that  are 
upon  us. 

Our  church  requires  this ;  and  appoints  days, 
and  times,  &lc.  ;  and  it  has  been  the  honour  of  this 
church,  that  she  hath  kept  up  to  her  rules,  when 
others  have  shamefully  neglected  them. 


O 


WEDNESDAY  MEDITATIONS.  131 

By  fasting,  by  alms,  and  by  prayers,  we  dedicate 
our  bodies,  goods,  and  souls  to  God  in  a  particular 
manner. 


LENT. 

MEDITATIONS    PROPER    FOR    A    CLERGYMAN    AT    THAT 

SEASON. 

The  primitive  Bishops  had  places  of  retirement 
near  their  cities,  that  they  might  separate  themselves 
from  the  world,  lest  teaching  others  they  should  for- 
get themselves  ;  lest  they  should  lose  the  spirit  of 
piety  themselves,  while  they  were  endeavouring  to  fix 
it  in  others. 

Prosper,  O  God,  the  good  thoughts,  the  good  pur- 
poses, which  Thou  Thyself  shalt  inspire  ! 

I  acknowledge  Thy  goodness,  which  has  raised 
me  above  my  brethren,  and  appointed  me  a  successor 
to  Thy  apostles.  O  may  I  ever  act  agreeably  to  this 
character.  May  I  never  profane  a  character  so  holy 
and  so  divine,  lest  God  should  pour  down  His  ven- 
geance upon  my  ungrateful  head.  Pardon  me  where- 
insoever I  have  been  wanting  in  tlie  several  duties  of 
my  calling ;  and  give  me  grace  to  be  more  careful  for 
the  time  to  come.     Amen. 

How  am  I  bound  to  adore  Thy  goodness,  my  great 
Master  !  Thou  hast  set  me  in  office  amongst  the  chief 
of  Thy  servants  ;  but  I  will,  for  Thy  sake,  make 
myself  the  servant  of  the  meanest  of  Thy  servants. 

O b 


o — -o 

132  SACRA    PRI7ATA. 

By  me  Thou  communicatest  Thy  grace  in  the 
Sacrament ;  by  me  Thou  teachest  Thy  people  the 
truth ;  by  my  hands  Thou  adoptest  them  Thy  chil- 
dren in  baptism,  feedest  them  with  Thy  Body,  com- 
fortest  them  in  affliction,  armest  them  aorainst  the  fear 
of  death,  and  fittest  them  for  a  blessed  eternity. 

Grant  that  I  may  truly  weigh  the  sanctity  of  my 
calling,  and  faithfully  discharge  it ;  and  that  others 
may  weigh  it,  and  bless  Thee  for  so  great  a  blessing. 

I  am  appointed  to  sanctify  others.  O  grant  that 
I  may  first  sanctify  myself;  that  I  may  separate  my- 
self from  this  world,  its  profits,  pleasures,  honours, 
and  all  its  idols.     Amen. 

Let  my  zeal,  O  my  Lord  and  Master,  be  answera- 
ble to  that  account  which  I  must  one  day  give.  Lei 
me  not  see  Thy  laws  broken,  hear  Thy  name  blas- 
phemed, Thy  word  set  at  nought,  Thine  Ordinances 
despised,  with  patience.  And  O,  may  I  never,  by 
any  neglect  or  sinful  silence  of  mine,  contribute  to 
these  crimes ;  but  employ  my  authority  to  suppress 
them. 

Let  me  remember  what  was  once  said  by  Christ 
Himself  to  a  Christian  bishop  ;  *'  Because  thou  art 
lukewarm,  neither  cold  nor  hot,  I  will  spue  thee  out 
of  my  mouth." 

Inspire  my  heart  with  such  holy  resolution  and 
courage,  that  I  may  not  fear  any  man  when  Thy 
honour  and  my  duty  call  me  ;  that  no  worldly  consi- 
derations may  hinder  me,  when  my  office  obliges  me 
to  stand  in  the  gap.     Amen. 

Give  me  such  holy  dispositions  of  soul,  whenever 


O- 


i 


O 9 

WEDNESDAY    MEDITATIONS.  133 

I  approach  Thine  altar,  as  may  in  some  measure  be 
proportionable  to  the  holiness  of  the  work  I  am  about, 
of  presenting  the  prayers  of  the  faithful,  of  offering 
a  spiritual  sacrifice  to  God,  in  order  to  convey  the 
body  and  blood  of  Jesus  Christ — the  true  bread  of 
life — to  all  his  members.  Give  me,  when  I  com- 
memorate the  same  sacrifice  that  Jesus  Christ  once 
offered,  give  me  the  same  intentions  that  He  had,  to 
satisfy  the  justice  of  God,  to  acknowledge  His  mer- 
cies, and  to  pay  all  that  debt  which  a  creature  owes 
to  his  Creator.  None  can  do  this  effectually  but 
Jesus  Christ :  Him,  therefore,  we  present  to  God  in 
this  Holy  Sacrament. 

0  Thou,  who  hast  made  me  a  servant  in  Thy 
house,  give  me  such  dispositions  as  that  I  may  never 
dishonour  thy  service.     Amen. 

1  am  a  sinner,  and  yet  I  am  appointed  to  offer  up 
prayers  for  others.  It  is  the  great  God  to  whom  I 
offer  these  prayers.  To  me  the  church,  the  spouse 
of  Christ,  intrusts  her  desires,  her  interests,  her  ne- 
cessities, and  her  thanks. 

What  a  trust  is  this !  O  may  I  never  betray  it, 
may  I  never  obstruct  Thy  mercies  to  Thy  church  by 
a  formal  service !  Let  me  ever  speak  to  God,  and 
from  God,  with  attention,  with  love,  with  respect, 
with  fear,  with  purity  of  heart,  and  with  unpolluted 
lips!     Amen  ! 

The  office  of  a  shepherd  of  souls  is  full  of  diffi- 
culty. Consider  what  toil  Jesus  Christ  underwent, 
what  reproaches,  what  contempt,  what  despite  ! — and 
from  those  persons  to  whom  He  preached  the  most 

C O 


O ' 

134  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

concerning  truths ;  and,  last  of  all,  laying  down  His 
life  for  His  sheep. 

I  am  astonished,  and  greatly  ashamed,  when  I 
consider  how  very  far  I  come  short  of  this  pattern, 
how  poor  my  pains  have  been,  how  little  of  my  time, 
my  care,  my  thoughts,  have  been  spent  in  this  service. 

O  Chief  Shepherd,  and  Bishop  of  souls,  commu- 
nicate to  me,  the  meanest  of  Thy  herdsmen,  such  a 
degree  of  concern  as  may  thoroughly  qualify  me  for 
this  great  work ;  pardon  my  past  negligence,  and  lay 
not  to  my  charge  the  evils  which  may  have  happened 
thereby !     Amen. 

Consider  the  patience  of  your  great  Master,  with 
what  compassion  He  treated  sinners ;  transcribe  His 
example  ;  and  if  any  of  your  flock  are  perverse,  fro- 
ward,  obstinate,  bear  with  them,  condescend  to  their 
weakness,  and  strive  to  reduce  them  even  against 
their  wills. 

But  has  this  been  my  way  ?  Very  far  from  it.  I 
have  been  impatient,  when  any  of  my  flock  have  not 
been  bettered  by  my  care  and  pains.  And  this,  not 
from  a  true  zeal  for  the  glory  of  God,  and  the  good 
of  souls,  but  too  often,  alas !  from  the  principle  of 
self-love ;  angry  because  I  have  been  so  conceited  as 
to  think  that  my  labours  should  not  be  in  vain. 

And  yet  how  often  has  God  spoken  to  me  myself, 
and  I  regarded  it  not !  How  lonor  was  his  grace 
ineffectual  even  with  myself! 

O  Jesu,  impart  to  me  a  portion  of  that  spirit  of 
meekness,  which  prevailed  with  Thee  to  preach  to  a 
people  who  regarded  Thee  not,  who  despised,  who 

O ■ O 


o 

WEDNESDAY    MEDITATIONS.  135 

crucified  Thee.  Then  why  should  I,  who  am  a  sin- 
ner, complain  of  my  unsuccessful  labours? 

Forgive,  gracious  God,  the  faults  I  have  commit- 
ted in  this  great  work  of  the  ministry  ;  and  let  no 
unworthiness  in  me  hinder  thy  blessings  from  descend- 
ing upon  the  souls  committed  to  my  care.     Amen. 

Reflect  seriously  what  a  dreadful  account  you 
have  to  give,  if  you  say,  "  Peace,  peace,  when  there 
is  no  peace  ;"  or  if  you  give  the  children's  bread  to 
dogs  ;  that  is,  admit  to  the  Lord's  table  those  that  are 
unworthy  of  such  a  favour.  This  would  be  to  lay 
men  asleep  in  their  sin.  Lord,  preserve  thy  servant 
from  this  sin  !     Amen. 

"  I  have  given  you  an  example,  that  ye  should  do 
as  I  have  done." 

O,  Lord,  that  I  could  say  this  to  the  flock  over 
which  the  Holy  Ghost  hath  made  me  overseer.  That 
I  could  say,  Be  ye  devout,  as  ye  see  me  devout ;  do 
ye  forgive  one  another,  as  ye  see  me  ready  to  forgive  ; 
despise  the  world,  &c.,  as  ye  see  me  do  it. 

Let  me  seriously  consider,  that  I  am  not  only  an- 
swerable for  my  own  personal  offences ;  I  sin  every 
time  I  cause  others  to  sin  by  my  example.  What 
reparation  can  be  made,  what  answer  can  be  given, 
when  Christ  requires  our  flock  at  our  hand  ? 

Lord,  suffer  me  not  to  follow  my  own  will ;  reform 
me,  that  I  may  reform  others ;  give  me  light  to  dis- 
cover, and  grace  to  amend,  where  I  have  done  amiss. 
Amen. 

Let  your  conversation  be  such  as  becomes  not 
only  the  Gospel,  but  ministers  of  the  Gospel,  to  whom 

O — ~ O 


o o 

136  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

all  that  is  curious,  useless,  light,  and  vain,  is  forbid- 
den ;  all  scurrilous  language,  idle  stories,  &lc. 

Endeavour  to  leave  some  impression  of  piety  upon 
the  minds  of  those  with  w^hom  you  converse.  Jesus 
Christ  did  so  always. 

Make  no  distinction  betwixt  the  rich  and  the  poor, 
as  to  converse  with  the  one  and  not  with  the  other. 

Lord,  grant  that  thy  example  may  ever  be  before 
me ;  and  my  conversation  holy,  useful,  and  edifying. 
Amen. 

As  to  the  disposal  of  the  church's  revenues,  the 
suggestions  of  avarice,  of  vanity,  of  pleasure,  and  of 
the  world,  ought  not  to  govern  me.  I  am  only  a  stew- 
ard, not  a  proprietor,  and  should  be  as  criminal  as 
those  laymen  that  invade  them,  if  I  convert  them  to 
lay  and  secular  uses ;  which  sin  of  sacrilege,  very 
probably,  took  its  rise  from  others  observing  the 
church's  revenues  put  to  secular  uses. 

Grant,  O  my  Lord,  who  hast  given  me  much  more 
of  this  world's  goods  than  Thou  tookest  Thyself,  grant 
that  I  may  apply  the  goods  of  the  church  to  Thy 
glory,  and  to  the  support  of  Thy  poor  members ;  and 
pardon  all  my  vain  expenses.     Amen. 

"  He,"  and  especially  that  minister,  "  that  has  not 
the  Spirit  of  Christ,  is  none  of  His."  He  ought  to 
perform  all  his  duties  in  Christ's  name,  by  His  author- 
ity and  power  ;  and  offer  all  to  God  through  Him  ; 
adore  Jesus  Christ  as  preaching,  praying,  absolving, 
and  comforting,  by  you  His  minister. 

Lord  grant  that  I  may  set  Thee  ever  before  me, 
that  I  may  direct  all  my  labours  to  Thy  glory ;  let 

O C 


-o 


WEDNESDAY    MEDITATIONS.  137 

me  so  speak,  and  so  live,  that  my  words  and  actions 
may  be  worthy  of  Thee,  that  Thou  mayest  call  them 
Thine.     Amen. 


THE    PRIEST  S    LIPS     SHOULD    KEEP    KNOWLEDGE. 

Whence  this  knowledge  but  from  the  holy  Scrip- 
tures, which  alone  makes  us  sound  in  doctrine,  and 
able  to  convince  gainsayers  ? 

But  even  these  are  not  to  be  understood  without 
the  light  of  God's  Spirit,  a  diligent  reading  of  them, 
and  a  knowledge  of  the  maladies  men  are  subject  to, 
in  order  to  apply  them  wisely  and  safely. 

Men  read  the  Gospel  rather  as  judges  than  as  dis- 
ciples, which  is  the  rise  of  all  errors,  both  in  life  and 
doctrine. 

Grant,  O  Lord,  that  when  I  read  Thy  Word,  I 
may  do  it,  with  a  spirit  crucified  to  the  world,  to  my 
curiosity,  to  my  vanity,  to  my  interests,  and  to  my 
prejudices  !  Cure  me,  O  blessed  Physician,  first,  and 
then  teach  me  to  know  and  relieve  the  maladies  of 
my  flock,  that  I  may  present  them  sound  and  lovely 
in  Thy  sight !     Amen. 

Covetousness  is  idolatry  in  every  man ;  but  it  is 
abominable  in  a  minister  of  Jesus  Christ,  Who  ever 
affected  poverty  rather  than  wealth.  Who  lived  upon 
charity,  and  forbad  His  disciples  superfluities,  when 
He  sent  them  to  preach  the  Gospel. 

He  that  takes  care  of  the  fowls  of  the  air  will 
never  fail  to  provide  for  His  own  ministers.  It  is 
therefore  infidelity  to  be  over-careful  for  this  world. 

O O 


o — o 

138  SACRA    PRIVATA, 

God  grant  that  I  may  ever  depend  upon  the  provi- 
dence of  God ! 

Purity  of  soul  and  body  is  a  most  necessary  quali- 
fication in  a  minister  of  Jesus  Christ.  To  offer  the 
prayers  of  the  faithful  to  God  w^ith  polluted  lips,  to 
break  the  bread  of  life  with  unclean  hands,  to  receive 
that  bread  into  a  soul  defiled  with  unchaste  thoughts  ; 
how  dreadfully  provoking  must  it  needs  be ! 

A  blindness  of  spirit,  an  alienation  from  divine 
things,  an  incapacity  to  receive  them,  are  the  neces- 
sary effects  of  impurity. 

The  natural  man  receiveth  not  the  things  of  the 
Spirit.  Into  a  malicious  soul,  wisdom  and  piety  can- 
not enter. 

"  Blessed  are  the  pure  in  heart,  for  they  shall  see 
God."— Matthew  v.  8. 

A  priest  who,  in  the  exercise  of  his  function,  has 
an  eye  to  the  grandeur,  repute,  esteem  of  great  men, 
presumptuous  authority  over  the  consciences  of  oth- 
ers, worldly  advantages,  &:.c.,  perverts  the  design  of 
the  ministry. 

Grant,  O  Lord,  that  I  may  regard  nothing  but 
Thy  glory  ;  that  I  may  act  and  live  for  Thee  alone  ; 
that  my  zeal  for  Thy  glory,  and  the  good  of  souls, 
may  be  the  chief  motive  of  all  my  actions ! 


^ 


o- 


o- 


-o 


THURSDAY  MEMTATIOIS. 

CHURCH  DISCIPLINE. 


Question  from  the  Office  of  Ordination. — Will  you  maintain  and  set  forward, 
as  much  as  in  you  lieth,  quietness,  love  and  peace  among  all  men  ;  and 
such  as  be  unquiet,  disobedient,  and  criminous,  within  your  diocese,  cor- 
rect and  punish,  according  to  such  authority  as  you  have  by  God's  Woid, 
and  as  to  you  shall  be  committed  by  the  Ordinances  of  this  realm  ?  * 

.Answer. — I  will  do  so,  by  the  help  of  God. 

O  God  of  peace  and  love,  make  me,  Thy  minis- 
ter, a  messenger  and  instrument  of  peace  to  this  peo- 
ple to  whom  I  am  sent ;  that  by  Thy  gracious  assist- 
ance, I  may  root  out  all  strife  and  variance,  hatred 
and  malice,  and  that  this  church  and  nation  may  en- 
joy a  blessed  tranquillity. 

Bless  the  discipline  of  this  church  in  my  hands, 
and  make  it  effectual  for  the  conviction  of  vi'icked 
men  and  gainsayers. 

Assist  me,  by  Thy  good  Spirit,  that  I  may  apply 
a  proper  cure  to  every  disorder ;  that  I  may  reprove 

*  This  can  never  be  looked  upon  as  any  limitation  of  the  power  received 
from  Christ,  but  only  as  directing  the  exercise  thereof,  as  to  the  manner, 
form,  and  circumstance. 


o- 


-o 


Q P 

140  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

with  mildness,  censure  with  equity,  and  punish  with 
compassion. 

O  merciful  God,  who  wouldest  not  the  death  of  a 
sinner,  but  that  he  should  be  converted  and  live, 
bring  into  the  right  way  all  such  as  are  gone  astray 
from  Thy  commandments. 

Vouchsafe  unto  all  penitents  (and  especially  unto 
all  such  as  are  now  under  the  censures  of  the  church) 
a  true  sense  of  their  crimes,  true  repentance  for  them, 
and  Thy  gracious  pardon,  that  their  souls  may  be 
saved  in  the  day  of  the  Lord  Jesus.     Amen. 

CHURCH    DISCIPLINE. 

However  the  church  be,  in  some  respects,  incor- 
porated with  the  commonwealth  in  a  Christian  state, 
yet  its  fundamental  rights  remain  distinct  from  it. 
Of  which  this  is  one  of  the  chief:  to  receive  into, 
and  to  exclude  out  of  the  church,  such  persons  as, 
according  to  the  laws  of  the  Christian  society,  are  fit 
to  be  taken  in  or  shut  out. 

And  when  temporal  laws  interpose,  it  is  temporal 
punishment  only  which  they  design  to  inflict  or  set 
aside.* 

"  And  thou,  son  of  man,  be  not  afraid  of  them, 
neither  be  afraid  of  their  words  :  thou  shalt  speak  My 
words  unto  them,  whether  they  will  hear,  or  whether 
they  will  forbear." — Ezekiel  ii.  6. 

"  Lest  I  should  use  sharpness,  according  to  the 
power  (namely,  of  binding  and  loosing)  which  God 


*  Bishop  Stillingfleet. 


o- 


o— ■ o 

THURSDAY    MEDITATIONS.  141 

hath  given  me  to  edification,  and  not  to  destruction." 
—2  Cor.  xiii.  10. 

"  Whom  I  have  delivered  unto  Satan,  that  they 
may  not  blaspheme." — 1  Tim.  i.  20. 

O  admirable  use  and  command  of  Satan  !  He  is 
God's  enemy,  and  yet  does  Him  service ;  and  an 
adversary  to  man,  and  yet  helps  to  save  him.  He  is 
the  author  of  blasphemy,  and  yet  teacheth  not  to 
blaspheme ;  that  is,  one  that  is  stronger  than  he 
directs  his  malice  to  ends  vi^hich  he  did  not  intend. 
Satan  is  set  on  work  to  take  him  dovi^n  by  terror  and 
despair,  whom  he  before  had  tempted  to  sin.  But 
while  Satan  thinks  to  drive  him  to  destruction  by  de- 
spair, God  stops  his  course,  when  the  sinner  is  suffi- 
ciently humbled  :  and  then,  as  it  was  with  Christ, 
Satan  is  dismissed,  and  angels  come  and  minister 
unto  him."* 

What  great  man  shall  we  now  find,  who  will  not 
take  it  ill  to  be  reproved  ?  And  yet  David,  a  prince 
and  favourite  of  God,  when  he  was  reproved  even  by 
a  subject,  did  not  turn  away  in  a  rage,  but  confessed 
his  fault,  and  repented  truly  of  his  sin.t 

The  very  Office  of  Consecration,  so  often  con- 
firmed by  acts  of  parliament,  does  warrant  every 
Bishop,  in  the  clearest  and  most  express  terms,  to 
claim  authority,  by  the  Word  of  God,  to  exercise 
all  manner  of  spiritual  discipline  within  his  own 
diocese. :|: 

Men  should  be  persuaded,  not  forced,  to  forsake 
their    sins ;    because    God    rewards  not  those   who 

*  Rouse.      I  St.  Ambrose,  ap.  David.      J  Codex  Ju.  Eccl.  Angl.  p.  18. 

o o 


o o 

142  SACRA    PRIVATA.  ' 

through  necessity  forsake  their  sins,  but  such  as  do 
so  voluntarily.* 

Be  steady  and  fearless  in  the  discharge  of  your 
duty,  without  failing  in  that  respect  which  is  due  to 
higher  powers. 

Grant,  O  God,  that  I  may  have  an  eye  to  duty 
only,  that  I  may  fear  no  temporal  evil,  and  be  con- 
cerned only  lest  I  should  not,  in  all  respects,  please 
Thee,  my  God. 

"  The  judgment  is  God's."— Deut.  i.  17. 

As  this  should  oblige  all  people  to  be  afraid  of  a 
judgment  or  censure  passed  by  men  commissioned 
by  God,  so  it  should  make  us  very  careful  that  our 
judgment  be  such  as  is  worthy  of  God,  and  agreeable 
to  His  will  and  word. 

"  If  any  man  love  not  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  let 
him  be  anathema  maranatha." — 1  Cor.  xvi.  22. 

Here  is  a  positive  direction  to  the  Church  to  ex- 
communicate all  such  as  plainly  discover  that  they 
have  no  love  for  Jesus  Christ,  who  are  scandalous  or 
profane. 

Since  we  are  to  give  an  account  of  the  souls  com- 
mitted to  our  charge,  we  cannot  be  debarred  of  mak- 
ing use  of  all  the  means  enjoined  us  by  the  Gospel 
to  reduce  sinners. 

We  ought  to  be  thankful  for  the  favours  which 
we  have  received  from  religious  princes ;  but  if  our 
benefactors  require  of  us  what  is  inconsistent  with 
our  trust,  we  then  know  whom  we  are  to  obey. 

"  If  there  come  any  of  you,  and  bring  not  this 

*  Chrydostom. 

, o 


0 o 

THURSDAY    MEDITATIONS.  143 

doctrine,  receive  him  not  into  your  house,  neither 
bid  him  God  speed  ;  for  he  that  biddeth  him  God 
speed,  is  partaker  of  his  evil  deeds." — 2  John  x.  11. 

Not  to  show  our  abhorrence  of  sin,  is  to  consent 
to  it.  Men  do  not  sufficiently  consider  the  guilt  of 
this,  when  they  converse  with  notorious  offenders 
without  scruple.  They  partake  with  them  in  their 
sins  ;  they  harden  the  sinner ;  they  forget  the  fidelity 
they  owe  to  God  and  to  His  laws ;  and  greatly  hazard 
their  own  salvation. 

Excommunication  never  pronounced  except  where 
the  case  was  desperate,  by  the  obstinacy  of  the  party 
in  refusing  admonition,  and  to  submit  to  discipline.* 

"  The  Scribes  and  the  Pharisees  murmured,  say- 
ing. This  man  receiveth  sinners,  and  eateth  with 
them." — Luke  xv.  2. 

On  some  occasions,  we  ought  to  avoid  sinners, 
for  fear  of  being  corrupted,  or  to  put  them  to  shame, 
in  order  to  their  conversion.  But  to  converse  with 
them  as  our  Lord  did,  in  order  to  teach  them  their 
duty,  to  encourage  them  in  the  way  of  piety,  &/C., 
this  is  crod-like. 

"  Get  thee  behind  me,  Satan,  thou  savourest  not 
the  thino;s  that  be  of  God,  but  the  thincrs  that  be  of 
men." — Mark  viii.  33. 

How  dancrerous  is  tenderness  in  matters  of  sal- 
vation  !  To  spare  a  penitent,  is  to  ruin  him  by  a  fatal 
kindness. 

How  perilous  is  the  government  of  the  Church, 

*  Penit.  Disc.  p.  41,  42,  75,  120. 

O o 


o- 


144  SACRA    PRIVATA. 


wherein  a  man  becomes  guilty  of  those  things  which 
he  does  not  hinder,* 

"  For  the  weapons  of  our  warfare  are  not  carnal, 
but  mighty  through  God,  to  the  pulling  down  of 
stroncr  holds." — 2  Cor.  x.  4. 

We  surely  mistake  the  spirit  of  the  Gospel,  when 
we  would  establish  and  defend  the  Church  by  human 
policy  and  carnal  means,  by  friendship  of  great  men, 
credit,  reputation,  splendour,  riches,  &c. 

God  will  have  us  to  use  other  sort  of  arms  ;  namely, 
patience,  humility,  meekness,  prayers,  suffering,  and 
spiritual  censures,  to  which  God  will  join  His  own 
almighty  power. 

All  mankind  are  agreed,  that  human  legislators 
can  only  dispense  and  make  laws,  in  cases  purely 
human. 

There  is  a  public  absolution,  which  is  no  more 
than  a  relaxation  of  a  censure.  There  is  no  relation 
betwixt  that  and  the  absolution  of  sins. 

God  ratifies  in  heaven  the  judgments  of  His  min- 
isters upon  earth,  when  they  judge  by  the  rules  pre- 
scribed by  His  word. 

Whenever  church  discipline  meets  with  discoun- 
tenance, impieties  of  all  kinds  are  sure  to  get  head 
and  abound.  And  impieties  unpunished,  do  always 
draw  down  judgments. 

The  same  Jesus  Christ  who  appointed  baptism, 
for  the  receiving  of  men  into  His  church  and  family, 
has  appointed  excommunication  to  shut  out  such  as 
are  judged  unworthy  to  continue  in  it. 

*  Rev.  ii.  20. 
C — — O 


o 

THURSDAY    MEDITATIONS.  145 

"  If  thy  brother  shall  trespass  against  thee,  go  tell 
him  his  fault  between  thee  and  him  alone.  If  he 
shall  hear  thee,  thou  hast  gained  thy  brother.  But 
if  he  v/ill  not  hear  thee,  then  take  with  thee  one  or 
two  more,  that  in  the  mouth  of  two  or  three  witnesses 
every  word  may  be  established.  And  if  he  shall 
neglect  to  hear  them,  tell  it  unto  the  church  ;  but  if 
he  neglect  to  hear  the  church,  let  him  be  unto  thee 
as  a  heathen  man  and  a  publican.  Verily  I  say  unto 
you,  Whatsoever  ye  shall  bind  on  earth  shall  be 
bound  in  heaven ;  and  whatsoever  ye  shall  loose  on 
earth  shall   be  loosed  in  heaven." — Matthew   xviii. 

15,  &LC. 

So  that  if  baptism  be  a  blessing,  excommunication 
is  a  real  punishment ;  there  being  the  same  authority 
for  excommunication  as  for  baptism.  And  if  men 
ridicule  it,  they  do  it  at  the  peril  of  their  souls. 

In  short,  this  authority  is  necessary,  if  it  be 
necessary  to  preserve  the  honour  of  religion.  It  is 
appointed  by  Jesus  Christ.  The  ends  proposed  by  it 
are,  to  reform  wicked  men,  and  to  remove  scandals. 
If  the  sentence  be  duly  executed,  the  offender  is  re- 
ally deprived  of  the  ordinary  means  of  salvation. 

It  is  indeed  a  sentence  passed  by  men,  but  by 
men  commissioned  by  God  himself;  that  is,  by  the 
Holy  Ghost. 

The  authority  of  Christ  is  to  be  respected  in  the 
meanest  of  His  ministers. 

Excommunication,  the  most  dreadful  punishment 
which  a  Christian  can  suffer,  becomes  less  feared 
than  it  ought  to  be,  through  the  countenance  which 

7 


o 


o 

146  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

excommunicated  persons  meet  with,  contrary  to  the 
express  command  of  God,  With  such  a  one,  no  not 
to  eat. 

A  true  penitent  will  be  willing  to  bear  the  shame 
of  his  sins  (where  he  has  given  offence)  before  men, 
that  he  may  escape  the  confusion  of  them  hereafter. 
But  then  he  ought  to  know,  that  to  submit  to  the 
outward  part  of  penance,  is  not  to  submit  to  God, 
unless  it  proceed  from  the  fear  and  love  of  God, 

A  man  may  see  his  sin,  confess  it,  abhor  it,  and 
yet  be  a  false  penitent.  Judas  did  all  this.  What 
he  wanted  was  the  grace  of  God,  to  see  the  mercy  of 
God,  as  well  as  His  justice. 

Those  who  are  the  first  to  lead  men  into  sinful 
courses,  seldom  trouble  themselves  to  recover  them 
out  of  them.  The  ministers  of  Christ  must  do  it,  or 
they  must  die  in  their  sin. 

"  And  they  laughed  Him  to  scorn." — Mark  v.  4. 

O  my  Lord  and  Master  1  let  me  not  be  driven  from 
my  duty,  by  the  infidelity  and  scoffs  of  the  world. 

How  desperate  soever  the  condition  of  a  sinner 
may  appear,  we  must  neither  insult  over  it,  nor  des- 
pair of  his  conversion. 

A  person  who  has  offended  and  scandalized 
others  by  his  sins  ought,  before  he  be  admitted  to  the 
peace  of  the  church  and  to  receive  the  sacrament,  to 
give  some  good  assurance,  by  a  sober  life,  that  he  is 
a  true  penitent. 

'*  Shake  off"  the  dust  under  your  feet,  for  a  testi- 
mony against  them." — Mark  vi.  11. 

Jesus  Christ  permits  not  His  apostles  to  avenge 
^ 


Q O 

THURSDAY    MEDITATIONS.  147 

themselves  by  their  apostolical  power,  nor  even  to 
desire  that  He  should  do  it ;  but  to  leave  their  cause 
to  God,  with  full  confidence  in  Him. 

"  And  if  I  have  taken  any  thing  from  any  man 
by  false  accusation,  I  restore  him  four-fold." — Luke 
xix.  8. 

The  judgment  which,  of  his  own  accord,  this 
penitent  passes  upon  himself,  will  condemn  those 
who  reject  all  the  remedies  offered,  and  all  methods 
made  use  of,  for  their  conversion,  and  who  will  not 
make  the  least  atonement  for  their  crimes. 

Men  show,  very  plainly  that  they  love  sin,  when 
they  will  not  suffer  any  one  to  put  a  stop  to  it,  to 
remove  the  occasions  thereof,  and  to  shame,  to  re- 
prove, and  to  punish  the  sinner.  This  is  a  sin  which 
draws  after  it  great  judgments. 

If  a  pastor  hopes  to  do  his  duty  without  reproving 
the  world,  (without  testifying  that  the  works  thereof 
are  evil,*)  or  to  reprove  it  without  being  hated  by  it, 
he  will  deceive  himself;  he  may  carry  it  fair  with 
men,  but  will  be  condemned  by  Jesus  Christ. 

"  He  that  is  without  sin  among  you,  let  him  cast 
the  first  stone." — John  viii.  7. 

They  whose  duty  it  is  to  punish  offenders,  should 
take  great  care  not  to  be  influenced  by  pride,  hypo- 
crisy, passion,  false  zeal,  or  malice ;  but  to  punish 
with  reluctancy,  with  compassion,  as  having  a  sense 
of  their  own  misery  and  weakness,  which,  perhaps, 
render  them  more  guilty  in  the  sight  of  God. 

Let  ecclesiastical  judges  always  remember,  that 

*  John  vii.  7. 

, o 


o 

148  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

the  Holy  Ghost,  to  whom  it  belongs  to  bind  and 
loose,  never  makes  Himself  the  minister  of  the  pas- 
sions of  men. 

"  They  loved  the  praise  of  men  more  than  the 
glory  of  God." — John  xii.  43. 

And  this  is  the  cause  that  men  count  it  more 
shameful  to  acknowledge  their  crimes  than  it  was  to 
be  guilty  of  them. 

We  must  never  insult  a  sinner ;  but,  without  ex- 
tenuating his  sin,  we  must  comfort  him,  by  showing 
him  the  good  which  God  may  bring  out  of  it. 

"  As  for  Saul,  he  made  havock  of  the  church." 
Acts  viii.  3. 

The  designs  of  God  towards  Saul  should  teach 
us  not  to  despair  of  any  man's  conversion,  but  to 
pray  for  it,  and  to  use  our  best  endeavours,  instead  of 
being  angry,  and  .using  them  ill. 

"  And  Saul  was  three  days  without  sight,  and 
neither  did  eat  nor  drink." — Acts  ix.  9. 

Jesus  Christ  Himself,  in  this  instance,  teaches 
His  ministers  not  to  be  hasty  in  receiving  penitents, 
but  to  let  them  fast  and  pray,  and  bear  the  sense  of 
their  sin,  and  of  their  bad  condition,  before  they  be 
reconciled.  It  teaches  penitents  to  fast  and  pray, 
and  to  bear  with  patience  the  fruit  of  their  own 
doings. 

"  Many  that  believed  came,  and  confessed  their 
deeds,"  &/C. — Acts  xix.  18. 

The  spirit  of  Grace  always  inclines  men  to  con- 
1  fess  their  evil  deeds,  and  humble  themselves  for  their 
I   sins.     There  could  not  be  a  more  shameful  one  than 

O O 


p 9 

THURSDAY    MEDITATIONS.  149 

dealing  with  the  devil,  &c.,  yet  this  did  not  hinder 
them,  or  from  sacrificing  the  most  valuable  things 
that  had  been  instruments  in  their  vi^ickedness.  This 
is  a  proof  of  a  true  conversion. 

The  fall  of  others  is  for  us  a  great  instruction, 
and  a  lesson  which  we  ought  to  study,  not  in  order 
to  insult  our  neighbour,  but  to  fear  for  and  amend 
ourselves. 

Let  us  not  despise  any  sinner  ;  God  has  some- 
times very  great  designs  in  relation  to  those  who  are 
at  present  most  opposite  to  Him. 

To  reprove,  when  persons  are  not  in  a  proper 
disposition  for  amendment,  would  be  to  give  both 
them  and  ourselves  trouble  without  any  prospect  of 
advantage. 

To  make  reproof  beneficial,  they  to  whom  it  is 
given  should  see  that  it  does  not  proceed  from  humour, 
or  from  a  design  to  vex  them,  but  from  a  true  zeal 
and  love  for  their  souls. 

A  true  charity  will  never  insult  those  that  are 
gone  astray,  but  will  use  the  greatest  sinners  mildly, 
lest  they  should  be  driven  to  despair  by  too  great 
severity. 

The  church  forgives  sins  in  the  person  of  Christ.* 
She  remits  the  temporal  punishments  of  them  also, 
because  Christ  is  the  sovereign  High  Priest,  and 
because  it  belongs  to  God  alone  to  recede  from  the 
strictness  of  His  justice,  in  what  manner  He  thinks  fit. 

An  ecclesiastical   o-overnor  should  endeavour  to 

*  2  Corinthians  ii.  10. 

o 


Q 

150  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

preserve  discipline,   and  the  esteem  of  his  people  at 
the  same  time,  by  acts  of  tenderness,  charity,  &c. 

"  For  though  I  should  boast  of  my  authority, 
(which  the  Lord  hath  given  us  for  edification  and 
not  for  destruction,)  I  should  not  be  ashamed." — 2 
Cor.  X.  8. 

It  is  necessary,  sometimes,  to  extol  the  dignity  of 
our  office. 

N.  B.  Pastors  are  appointed  by  Christ  to  edify 
the  church ;  they  must  therefore  be  honoured  and 
obeyed. 

The  disorders  which  a  good  pastor  observes  in 
his  flock,  will  always  be  a  matter  of  humiliation  to 
him,  because  he  will  always  impute  them  to  himself 

A  pastor,  a  priest,  who  does  not  with  tears  and 
supplications  bewail  the  sins  of  his  people,  cannot 
call  himself  their  mediator  with  God. 

It  is  the  greatest  comfort  of  a  good  pastor,  to  find 
himself  obliged  to  use  nothing  but  good  advice,  and 
the  mild  part  only  of  his  authority ;  but  when  that 
will  not  do,  he  must  use  sharpness ;  but  still  with 
this  view,  that  it  be  for  their  edification,  not  for  their 
destruction. 

It  seldom  happens  that  great  men,  whether  clergy 
or  laity,  reform  their  lives,  because  they  seldom  meet 
with  persons  of  courage  to  oppose  them  or  to  tell 
them  of  their  faults.  A  bishop  who  is  not  restrained 
by  any  earthly  engagements,  will  not  spare  any  man 
whose  conduct  is  prejudicial  to  the  faith. 

"  I  would  they  were  even  cut  off  which  trouble 
you."— Gal.  v.  12. 


-O 


Q Q 

THURSDAY  MEDITATIONS.  151 

To  wish  shame,  or  some  temporal  evil,  for  the 
salvation  of  my  neighbour's  soul,  is  not  contrary  to 
charity.  It  seems,  matters  were  come  to  a  great 
heiorht  of  evil,  when  St.  Paul  was  forced  to  wish  that  to 
be  done,  which  he  did  not  in  prudence  think  fit  to  do. 

"  Reproach  not  a  man  that  turneth  from  sin,  but 
remember  that  we  are  all  worthy  of  punishment." — 
Ecclus.  viii.  5. 

"  Now  we  command  you,  (and  the  same  author- 
ity subsists  still  in  the  governors  of  the  church,)  in 
the  name  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  that  ye  withdraw 
yourselves  from  every  brother  that  walketh  disorderly, 
and  not  after  the  tradition  which  ye  received  from 
us."— 2  Thess.  iii.  6. 

Nothinor  is  there  which  the  faithful  ought  more 
carefully  to  avoid,  than  disorderly  livers  ;  nothing 
which  pastors  ought  more  earnestly  to  warn  their 
flocks  of 

May  I  ever  observe  the  rules  of  a  holy  and  chari- 
table severity. 

''  If  any  obey  not  our  word,  note  that  man,  and 
have  no  company  with  him,  that  he  may  be  ashamed  ; 
yet  count  him  not  as  an  enemy,  but  admonish  him  as 
a  brother." — 2  Thess.  iii.  14. 

Excommunication  is  only  for  the  contumacious, 
not  to  insult,  but  to  cure. 

*'  Acrainst  an  elder  receive  not  an  accusation,  but 
before  two  or  three  witnesses." — 1  Tim.  v.  19. 

A  pastor  ought  not  lightly  to  be  exposed  to  the 
revenge  of  those  whom  it  is  probable  he  has  or  shall 
have  occasion  to  reprove. 

O b 


Q .Q 

152  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

"  Them  that  sin  rebuke  before  all,  that  others 
also  may  fear." — 1  Timothy  v.  20. 

That  is,  who  sin  grievously,  and  are  convinced 
before  two  or  three  witnesses ;  let  such  be  censured 
before,  or  by  the  consent  of  all  the  congregation. 

"  In  meekness  instructing  (reproving)  those  that 
oppose  themselves,  if  God  peradventure  will  give 
them  repentance,  to  the  acknowledging  of  the  truth ; 
and  that  they  may  recover  themselves  out  of  the 
snare  of  the  devil,  who  are  taken  captive  by  him  at 
his  will." — 2  Timothy  ii.  25. 

When  we  consider  that  repentance  is  the  gift  of 
God,  that  the  wiles  of  the  devil  are  many,  and  cor- 
ruption of  nature  very  strong,  we  shall  compassionate 
instead  of  insulting  a  sinner. 

We  shall  adore  the  mercy  of  God  towards  our- 
selves, and  hope  for  it  for  others.  We  shall  fear  for 
ourselves,  and  pray  for  them.  They  may  recover, 
and  be  saved  :  we  may  fall,  and  be  lost  for  ever. 

When  men  will  not  take  care  of  their  own  salva- 
tion, the  church  owes  this  care  to  her  children,  to  hin- 
der them  as  much  as  possible  from  ruining  others. 

If  excommunication  be  perpetual,  it  is  caused  by 
the  obstinacy  of  the  offender,  not  by  the  laws  of 
Christ  or  His  church,  which  only  deprive  wicked 
men  of  the  benefit  of  communion  for  a  time,  to  bring 
them  to  a  sense  of  their  duty. 

Church  discipline  is  for  the  honour  of  God,  for 
the  safety  of  religion,  the  good  of  sinners,  and  for  the 
public  weal  ;  that  Christians  may  not  run  headlong 
to  ruin  without  being  made  sensible  of  their  danger ; 

O 0 


o — o 

THURSDAY    MEDITATIONS.  153 

that  others  may  see  and  fear,  and  not  go  on  presump- 
tuously in  their  evil  ways ;  that  the  house  of  God 
may  not  become  a  den  of  thieves  ;  and  that  judg- 
ments may  not  be  poured  dov^^n  upon  the  whole  com- 
munity. "  Did  not  Achan  commit  a  trespass,  and 
wrath  fell  on  all  the  congrreo-ation  ?"* 

The  most  effectual  way  of  answering  these  ends 
is,  to  exercise  a  strict  impartial  discipline.  First,  to 
withhold  from  Christians  the  benefit  of  the  holy 
Sacrament,  till  they  behave  themselves  so  as  to  be 
worthy  of  so  great  a  blessing.  And,  secondly,  if 
they  continue  obstinate,  (all  proper  methods  being 
used  to  reclaim  them,)  to  excommunicate  them ;  and 
to  oblige  all  sober  Christians  not  to  hold  familiar 
conversation  with  them. 

But  first  of  all,  Christians  should  be  made  sensi- 
ble of  what  blessings  they  are  deprived,  when  they 
are  debarred  the  communion,  even  the  greatest  on 
earth — the  hopes  of  salvation.  ''  Jesus  said.  Verily, 
verily,  I  say  unto  you,  Except  ye  eat  of  the  flesh  of 
the  Son  of  Man,  and  drink  His  blood,  ye  have  no 
life  in  you."t 

He  that  understands  and  believes  this,  will  sub- 
mit to  any  hardships,  rather  than  incur,  rather  than 
continue  under  a  sentence  so  full  of  terror  ;  and  a 
sentence  passed  by  one  commissioned  by  God,  and 
bound,  at  the  peril  of  his  soul,  to  pass  it ;  it  being 
the  greatest  indignity  to  Christ  and  the  divine  ordi- 
nance, to  prostitute  the  body  and  blood  of  Christ  to 
notorious  evil  livers. 

*  Joshua  xxii.  20.  t  John  vi.  53. 

7* 

o — o 


p p 

154  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

God  has  therefore  lodged  a  power  in  the  pastors 
of  His  church  to  repel  all  such ;  and  it  is  a  mercy 
even  to  them  to  be  hindered  from  increasinor  their 
guilt  and  their  damnation. 

Nor  can  any  prince,  governor,  or  human  law, 
hinder  a  Christian  bishop  from  exercising  this  pow- 
er ;  because  he  is  under  an  obligation  to  the  King 
of  kings,  and  Lord  of  lords,  to  do  his  duty  in  this 
respect. 

Nor  must  it  be  pretended,  that  the  punishment 
which  Christian  magistrates  inflict  may  supersede  this 
discipline. 

Those  punishments  only  affect  the  body,  and  keep 
the  outward  man  in  order.  These  are  desio-ned  to 
purify  the  soul,  and  to  save  that  from  destruction. 

Excommunication,  as  St.  Paul  tell  us,  is  "  for  the 
destruction  of  the  flesh,  that  the  soul  may  be  saved ;" 
that  is,  to  mortify  the  corruptions  of  nature,  lust, 
pride,  intemperance,  &lc.  ;  this  being  the  only  way  to 
save  the  soul  of  the  sinner,  and  to  bring  him  to  rea- 
son ;  that  is,  to  repentance. 

For  upon  a  sinner's  repentance,  (unless  where  he 
has  incurred  this  sentence  more  than  once,)  the 
church  is  ready  to  receive  him  into  her  bosom  with 
open  arms. 

But  then  by  repentance  must  be  understood,  not 
a  bare  change  of  mind,  not  an  acknowledgment  of 
the  sin  and  scandal,  not  a  serious  behaviour  for  a  few 
days,  all  which  may  soon  wear  off;  but  a  course  of 
public  penance,  a  long  trial  of  sincerity,  such  as  may 
satisfy  a  man's  self,  and  all  sober  Christians,  that  the 


O 


-i 


o- 


THURSDAY    MEDITATIONS.  155 

sinner  is  a  true  penitent,  that  he  has  forsaken  all  his 
evil  ways,  evil  company,  evil  habits,  that  he  is  grown 
habitually  serious,  devout,  and  religious,  and  that  by 
fasting  and  prayer  he  has  in  some  good  measure  got 
the  mastery  of  his  corrupt  nature,  and  has  begun  a 
repentance  not  to  be  repented  of 

For  want  of  this  care  and  method,  many  Chris- 
tians are  ruined  eternally.  They  sin,  and  repent, 
and  sin  again,  and  think  all  is  safe,  because  they  have 
repented,  as  they  think,  and  are  pardoned. 

There  are  people  who  are  in  the  same  sad  case 
with  those  that  stand  excommunicated,  though  no 
sentence  has  passed  upon  them  ;  namely,  such  as  live 
in  a  contempt  of  the  public  worship  of  God.  They 
cannot  properly  be  turned  out  of  the  church,  who 
never  come  into  it ;  but  they  keep  themselves  out  of 
the  ark,  and  consequently  must  perish. 

Excommunication,  in  the  primitive  times,  was 
pronounced  in  the  congregation  to  which  the  offend- 
er belonged.  After  which,  they  gave  notice  to  all 
other  churches ;  namely.  Let  no  temple  of  God  be 
open  to  him ;  let  none  converse  with  him ;  &c. 

"  And  David  said  unto  Nathan,  I  have  sinned 
against  the  Lord.  And  Nathan  said.  The  Lord  also 
hath  put  away  thy  sin  ;  thou  shalt  not  die.  Howbeit, 
because  by  this  deed  thou  hast  given  occasion  to  the 
enemies  of  the  Lord  to  blaspheme,  the  child  that  is 
born  unto  thee  shall  surely  die." — 2  Sam.  xii.  13,  14. 

The  Divine  Justice  punisheth  every  sin,  either  in 
this  world  or  in  the  next. 

A  sinner's  willingness  to  undergo  any  punishment 
O 


o o 

156  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

which  shall  be  appointed  by  the  minister  of  God,  in 
order  to  make  proof  of  and  to  establish  his  repent- 
ance, is  a  sure  sign  that  God  has  not  withdrawn  His 
grace,  notwithstanding  his  sin. 

"  Whoremongers  and  adulterers  God  will  judge." 
— Hebrews  xiii.  4. 

You  dare  not  say  that  this  is  not  true.  What  can 
you  say  to  your  own  mind  to  make  it  easy  ?  Nothing 
but  this  can  make  you  easy  ;  to  take  shame  to  yourself, 
to  confess  your  sin,  to  fast,  and  to  pray  earnestly  to 
God  for  pardon,  &c.,  and  to  let  others  know  "  what 
an  evil  thingr  and  bitter  it  is  to  forsake  the  Lord." 

This  visitation  will  either  do  you  much  good  or 
much  hurt ;  you  will  from  this  time  grow  much  bet- 
ter or  much  worse. 

Since  you  did  not  blush  to  sin,  do  not  blush  to 
own  your  faults. 

Let  it  be  matter  of  joy  and  thankfulness  to  you, 
that  we  are  concerned  for  you  so  much. 

Grace,  indeed,  we  cannot  give ;  that  is  the  gift  of 
God.  We  can  only  pray  for  you,  and  do  our  duty  in 
admonishing  you,  &c. 

If  you  submit  for  fear  only,  and  not  for  con- 
science' sake,  you  will  suffer  both  here  and  hereafter. 

When  men,  and  especially  men  in  any  authority, 
are  not  content  to  neglect  their  own  salvation,  but 
are  industrious  to  ruin  others,  they  may  depend  upon 
it,  they  are  very  near  filling  up  the  measure  of  their 
iniquities,  and  consequently  their  destruction  is  not 
far  off. 

Our  charity  to  offenders  ought  to  be  like  that  of 

O — O 


o o 

•  THURSDAY    MEDITATIONS.  157 

God,  not  in  flattering  them  by  a  cruel  indulgence, 
but  in  putting  them,  by  a  merciful  severity,  in  the 
way  of  obtaining  pardon. 

In  the  primitive  church,  great  offenders  were  not 
restored  to  communion  till  they  had,  by  their  behav- 
iour, given  all  possible  demonstrations  of  the  sincerity 
of  their  repentance  not  to  be  repented  of;  and  this  by 
a  long  trial  of  mortification,  &c.,  for  a  short  repent- 
ance too  seldom  ends  in  amendment  of  life ;  and  he 
who  fancies  that  his  mind  may  effectually  be  changed 
in  a  short  time,  will  deceive  himself  and  the  church, 
unless  he  shows  this  change  by  fasting,  alms-deed, 
retirement,  &c.,  and  that  for  a  considerable  time. 

Will  any  man  say  that  he  loves  Christ,  and  His 
church,  when  he  opposes  the  authority  of  her  pas- 
tors ;  when  he  opposes  her  discipline ;  or  when  he 
weakens  her  unity  ? 

When  we  consider,  that  God  is  absolute  Master 
of  men's  hearts,  we  should  not  think  any  man  capa- 
ble of  salvation. 

My  God !  let  me  always  fear  for  myself,  when  I 
am  labouring  to  promote  the  salvation  of  others. 

Remissness  in  church  discipline  is  owing,  some- 
times to  indulgence  and  an  easy  temper,  not  caring 
to  trouble  others,  or  to  be  troubled ;  sometimes  by 
being  satisfied  to  go  on  in  the  track  trodden  by  their 
predecessors,  not  considering  what  duty  obliges  them 
to,  but  what  was  done  before ;  others,  out  of  down- 
right neglect,  not  caring  how  things  go,  give  oppor- 
tunity to  the  enemy  to  sow  tares  while  they  are  thus 
asleep.     Thus  corruption  gets  head,  and  is  like  to  do 

O O 


o 

158  SACUA    PRIVATA.  ^ 

SO,  until  God  awakens  the  governors  both  in  church 
and  state,  and  makes  them  see  that  they  are  answer- 
able for  all  the  sins  occasioned  by  their  negligence ; 
and  that  they  have  more  souls  besides  their  own  to  ac- 
count for ;  which  is  one  day  to  fall  heavy  upon  them. 

Lord,  awaken  all  that  are  in  power  ;  and  me,  Thy 
unworthy  servant ;  that  we  may  all  discharge  our 
duty  more  faithfully. 

There  may  be  people  bold  enough  to  make  a 
mock  of  sin,  to  submit  to  public  penance  with  con- 
tempt of  the  authority  that  enjoins  it,  and  not  to  be 
bettered  by  such  Christian  methods  for  the  restoring 
sinners  to  the  peace  of  God ;  but  it  is  to  be  hoped  all 
are  not  so  hardened  ;  and  that  church  discipline  is, 
notwithstanding,  a  mighty  check  upon  sin,  and  keeps 
many  under  a  fear  of  committing  such  crimes  as 
must  oblige  them  to  take  shame  to  themselves  before 
the  face  of  men. 

That  perfect  penance  which  Christ  requireth, 
consists  of  contrition,  confession,  and  amendment  of 
former  life,  and  an  obedient  reconciliation  to  the  laws 
and  will  of  God.* 

ABSOLUTION. 

Our  church  ascribeth  not  the  power  of  remission 
of  sin  to  any  but  to  God  only.  She  holds,  that  faith 
and  repentance  are  the  necessary  conditions  of  receiv- 
ing this  blessing.  And  she  asserts,  what  is  most 
true,  that  Christ's  ministers  have  a  special  commis- 

*  Convocatio,  153G.    See  also  the  Homilies. 

O Q 


o o 

THURSDAY    MEDITATIONS.  159 

sion,  which  other  believers  have  not,  authoritatively 
to  declare  this  absolution,  for  the  comfort  of  true 
penitents ;  and  which  absolution  if  duly  dispensed, 
will  have  a  real  effect  from  the  promise  of  Christ. — 
John  XX.  23.* 

Authority  of  the  church,  is  only  spiritual  and 
ministerial,  (the  Head  and  Authority  being  in  hea- 
ven.) She  does  not,  therefore,  call  her  orders  laws, 
but  rules,  canons  ;  and  her  inflictions,  not  punish- 
ments, but  censures.  She  acknowledges,  that  what- 
ever power  she  has  besides  spiritual,  is  either  from 
the  favour  or  injunctions  of  princes.  But  [Art,  37] 
we  give  not  our  princes  (and  they  have  always  dis- 
claimed it)  the  power  of  administering  God's  word 
or  the  sacraments.  And  although  our  spiritual  pow- 
er be  from  God,  yet  is  this  power  subject  to  be  inhib- 
ited, limited,  regulated,  in  the  outward  exercises,  by 
the  laws  and  customs  of  the  land.  By  this  modera- 
tion both  powers  are  preserved  entire  and  distinct. 
We  neither  claim  a  power  of  jurisdiction  over  the 
prince,  nor  pretend  to  be  exempt  from  his. 

The  greatest  care  ought  to  be  taken  concerning 
the  sincerity  of  penitents ;  till  that  be  done,  penance 
will  only  be  a  form  without  a  power,  or  any  real 
benefit. 

In  the  .primitive  church,  every  thing  was  done 
with  advice,  because  their  great  aim  was  to  have  rea- 
son and  the  will  of  God  prevail.  A  despotic  power 
was  forbid  by  Christ  Himself:  "It  shall  not  be  so 
among  you."     He  that  is  humble  and  charitable  will 

*  Pull.     Moderat. 
O _„-™- ^-, . — ^ o 


o o 

160  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

take  the   mildest   and   surest  way,   and  will  not  be 
troubled,  provided  the  end  be  obtained. 

PENANCE. 

Sin  is  the  disease  of  the  soul.  Diseases  are  not 
to  be  cured  in  a  moment ;  it  will  take  time  to  root 
out  their  causes,  and  to  prevent  their  effects ;  so  will 
it  require  time  to  prove  the  sincerity  of  our  resolu- 
tions. We  solemnly  profess  that  we  repent,  and  we 
are  not  sure  but  that  we  lie  to  God. 

DISCIPLINE. 

As  discipline  slackened,  men's  manners  grew 
more  and  more  corrupt,  even  in  the  primitive  times. 
There  were  never  more  infidels  converted  (saith 
Fleury)  than  when  catechumens  were  most  strictly 
examined,  and  baptized  Christians  put  to  open  pen- 
ance for  their  sins. 

They  that  are  for  making  still  more  concessions 
to  human  frailty,  will  at  last  set  aside  the  Christian 
religion,  which  is  established  upon  maxims  of  eternal 
truth,  and  not  on  human  policy  ;  and  instead  of  gain- 
ing or  securing  the  bad,  they  will  lose  the  better  sort. 

A  flattering  physician  is  for  giving  palliating 
medicines  to  ease  the  pain,  without  taking  away  the 
cause,  which  will  occasion  relapses,  until  at  last  they 
destroy  the  patient.  But  a  good  man  will  prescribe 
what  he  believes  necessary  to  remove  the  cause, 
though  uneasy  to  his  patient,  and  will  have  nothing 

C O 


r 


o 

THURSDAY    MEDITA.TIONS.  161 

to  do  with  such  as  will  not  submit  to  the  necessary 
methods  of  cure. 

Penances,  in  the  primitive  church,  were  never 
granted  but  unto  such  as  desired  them,  and  sucli  as 
desired  to  be  converted.  None  were  forced  ;  but 
such  as  would  not  submit  were  excommunicated. 

DISCIPLINE    IMPRACTICABLE. 

This  cannot  be,  when  it  was  practised  for  so 
many  years  in  the  primitive  church.  And  what  if  it 
be  one  of  those  things  which  Christ  has  commanded 
His  followers  to  observe  so  strictly,*  and  which  He 
had  learned  of  the  Father  !t  The  commands  of 
Christ  cannot  be  impracticable.  That  would  be  to 
tax  Him  with  ignorance  or  weakness.  When  He 
promised  to  be  with  His  church  to  the  end  of  the 
world.  He  engaged  to  give  such  graces  as  were  neces- 
sary to  raise  us  above  our  natural  weaknesses. 

Penances  forced  are  seldom  lastinor. 

The  priest,  under  the  law,  could  not  accept  the 
offering  of  a  leper,  nor  allow  him  to  partake  of  the 
sacrifice,  till  he  had  received  convincing  tokens  of 
his  cleanness  ;  no  more  ought  the  Christian  priest  to 
treat  sinners  as  cured  till  he  sees  the  proof  | 

''  Whatsoever  thou  shalt  bind  on  earth  shall  be 
bound  in  heaven  :  and  whatsoever  thcu  shalt  loose  on 
earth  shall   be  loosed  in  heaven." — Matthew  xvi.  19. 

Those  ministers  that  know  not  what  it  is  to  bind 
and  loose  sinners,  reject  one  half  of  their  commission. 

*  Matthew  xxviii.  19,  20.        t  John  xv.  15.  xvi.  13.        %  Uuesnel. 

I 

o o 


O Q 

162  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

Excommunication  is  the  last  remedy  reserved  for 
the  incorrigible,  in  case  of  enormous  sins. — They 
who  despise  it,  know  not  what  it  is  to  be  a  heathen 
in  God's  sight,  to  be  without  God  for  a  Father,  Christ 
^or  a  Saviour,  the  Church  for  a  mother,  and  Chris- 
tians for  brethren. 

A  true  penitent  is  always  willing  to  bear  the 
shame  and  confusion  of  his  sin  and  folly  before  men, 
that  he  may  escape  the  anger  of  God. 

"  Looking  diligently,  lest  any  man  fail  of  the 
grace  of  God ;  lest  any  root  of  bitterness  springing 
up  trouble  you,  and  thereby  many  be  defiled.  Lest 
there  be  any  fornicator,  or  profane  person,  as  Esau, 
who  for  one  morsel  of  meat  sold  his  birthright." — 
Heb.  xii.  15 ;  that  is,  such  as  for  a  short  pleasure, 
forfeit  their  eternal  inheritance. 

Happy  that  sinner,  whom  God  does  not  abandon 
to  the  hardness  of  his  heart,  but  awakens  him  by  His 
judgments,  or  the  visitations  of  His  grace. 

"  I  beseech  thee,  torment  me  not."-^Luke  viii.  28. 

These  were  the  words  of  the  devil  to  our  Lord, 
and  these  are  the  suoroestions  in  the  hearts  of  all  sin- 
ners,  wherever  he  has  got  possession.  When  a  min- 
ister of  Christ,  by  his  sermons,  rebukes,  &lc.,  or  the 
church  by  her  discipline,  attempts  to  disturb  the  sin- 
ner, they  are  looked  upon  as  his  mortal  enemy ;  and 
they  treat  both  the  church  and  her  ministers  worse 
than  this  legion  did  Jesus  Christ.  They  despise 
their  power,  set  at  nought  their  persons,  and  threaten 
and  persecute  them  for  their  good-will.* 

*  See  (luesnel. 

o o 


o 

THURSDAY    MEDITATIONS.  163 

There  is  not  any  greater  or  more  dreadful  sign  of 
the  wrath  of  God,  than  when  he  abandons  a  sinner 
to  his  lusts,  and  permits  him  to  find  means  of  satisfy- 
in  or  them. 

The  public  good  is  the  sole  end  of  church  disci- 
pline. The  interest  of  the  governors  of  the  church 
is  no  way  concerned  in  it,  but  only  the  advantage  of 
their  flock,  that  sinners  may  be  converted ;  that  con- 
tagion may  be  hindered  from  spreading ;  that  every 
one  may  be  kept  to  his  duty,  and  in  obedience  to  the 
laws  of  God ;  that  judgments  may  be  averted  from 
the  public ;  and  that  God  in  all  things  may  be  glori- 
fied ;  that  differences  among  neighbours  may  be  made 
up,  and  charity  improved,  &c. 

Discipline  (saith  our  Homily  of  the  right  use  of 
the  Church,  part  2)  in  the  primitive  church  was  prac- 
tised, not  only  upon  mean  persons,  but  upon  the  rich, 
the  noble,  and  the  mighty  ;  and  "  such,"  as  St.  Paul 
saith,  "  were  even  given  to  Satan  for  a  time." 

Those  that  make  a  mock,  a  sport,  a  jest  of  sin, 
too  plainly  betray  a  love  of  wickedness  in  themselves. 

EXEMPTION. 

A  legal  exemption  cannot  free  a  man  from  guilt, 
beyond  the  extent  of  that  power  which  grants  the 
exemption.  If  it  be  a  human  power,  it  can  extend 
no  further  than  to  exempt  a  man  from  human  penal- 
ties, not  from  those  that  are  purely  spiritual. 

''  Reproach  not  a  man  that  turneth  from  sin." — 
Eccles.  viii.  5. 

b 6 


o- \0 

164  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

They  whom  fear  renders  cowardly  in  the  exercise 
of  their  ministry,  forget  that  they  act  in  the  name 
and  place  of  Christ,  and  are  to  account  to  Him  for 
the  mischief  the  church  receives  thereby. 

"  Ye  shall  not  be  afraid  of  the  face  of  man,  for 
the  judgment  is  God's." — Deut.  i.  17. 

O  righteous  Judge  of  the  world,  give  me  and  my 
substitutes  grace  patiently  to  hear,  and  impartially 
to  weigh,  every  cause  that  shall  come  before  us  in 
judgment. 

Give  us  a  spirit  to  discern,  and  courage  to  exe- 
cute true  judgment,  that  all  our  sentences  may  be 
approved  by  Thee  our  Lord  and  Judge.     Amen. 

"  Thou  shalt  not  pervert  the  judgment  of  the 
stranger  nor  of  the  fatherless." — Deut.  xxiv.  17. 

"  Every  one  loveth  gifts  :  they  judge  not  the  fa- 
therless."— Isaiah  i.  23 ;  that  is,  they  are  poor  and 
cannot  bribe  them. 

''  Thou  shalt  not  follow  a  multitude  to  do  evil  ; 
neither  shalt  thou  speak  in  a  cause  to  decline  after 
many,  to  wrest  judgment.  Neither  shalt  thou  counte- 
nance a  poor  man  in  his  cause." — Exodus  xxiii.  2,  3. 

"  Thou  shalt  not  respect  the  person  of  the  poor, 
nor  honour  the  person  of  the  mighty ;  but  in  right- 
eousness shalt  thou  judge  thy  neighbour." — Deuter- 
onomy xix.  15. 

The  judgment  of  the  multitude  is  no  rule  of  jus- 
tice. *'  Then  cried  they  all.  Not  this  man,  but  Ba- 
rabbas." 

"  If  thou  let  this  man  go,  thou  art  not  Caesar's 
friend  :  when  Pilate  heard  that  saying,"  (John  xix. 

O O 


o o 

THURSDAY    MEDITATIONS.  165 

12,)  then  he  resolved  to  sacrifice  his  conscience, 
rather  than  lose  his  prince's  favour. 

"  And  he  said  unto  the  judges,  Take  heed  what 
ye  do  :  for  ye  judge  not  for  man,  but  for  the  Lord, 
who  is  with  you  in  the  judgment." — 2  Chronicles 
xix.  6. 

"  He  that  justifieth  the  wicked,  and  he  that  con- 
demneth  the  just,  even  they  both  are  an  abomination 
to  the  Lord." — Proverbs  xvii.  13. 

"  Except  it  were  given  thee  from  above." — John 
xix.  11. 

Although  the  magistrate's  authority  is  from  God, 
yet  he  is  answerable  to  God  for  the  due  execution 
of  it. 

"  To  do  justice  and  judgment  is  more  acceptable 
to  the  Lord  than  sacrifice." — Proverbs  xxi.  3. 

'*  To  what  purpose  is  the  multitude  of  your  sacri- 
fices unto  Me  ?  saith  the  Lord  :  I  am  full  of  the 
burnt-offerings  of  rams,  and  the  fat  of  fed  beasts  ; 
and  I  delight  not  in  the  blood  of  bullocks,  or  of 
lambs,  or  of  he-goats." — Isaiah  i.  11. 

"  For  I  desired  mercy,  and  not  sacrifice  ;  and  the 
knowledge  of  God,  more  than  burnt-offerings." — 
Hosea  vi.  6. 

"  Will  the  Lord  be  pleased  with  thousands  of 
rams,  or  with  ten  thousands  of  rivers  of  oil  ?  Shall 
I  give  my  first-born  for  my  transgression,  the  fruit  of 
my  body  for  the  sin  of  my  soul  ?  He  hath  showed 
thee,  O  man,  what  is  good ;  and  what  doth  the  Lord 
require  of  thee,  but  to  do  justly,  and  to  love  mercy, 
and  to  walk  humbly  with  thy  God?" — Micah  vi.  7,  8. 

O O 


_ p 

166  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

The  Jews  had  a  rule,  that  if  a  rich  man  and  a 
poor  man  had  a  controversy,  they  must  both  of  them 
stand  or  sit,  to  avoid  partiality. 

Virtue  would  hardly  be  distinguished  from  a  kind 
of  sensuality,  if  there  were  no  labour,  no  opposition, 
no  difficulty,  in  doing  our  duty.  Dulce  est periculum 
sequi  Deum. 

The  duty  of  a  judge  may  oblige  him  to  punish 
according  to  the  law ;  but  it  is  the  part  of  a  Chris- 
tian injured  to  forgive  according  to  the  charity  of  the 
gospel. 

A  judge  is  not  the  master  but  the  minister  of  the 
law — for  the  public  good,  not  for  his  own  interest, 
passion,  or  will. 

A  good  judge  will  never  desire  to  make  himself 
feared  by  his  power :  but  will  rather  be  afraid  of 
abusing  it. 

The  civil  magistrate  is  liable  to  be  excluded  from 
church  communion  for  such  reasons  as  the  spiritual 
governors  shall  judge  necessary  ;  they  are  to  deter- 
mine for  him,  and  not  he  for  them,  in  matters  merely 
spiritual. 

Give  me,  O  Lord,  the  spirit  of  judgment,  that  I 
may  govern  this  church  with  wisdom.* 

"  Be  not  faint-hearted  when  thou  sittest  in  judg- 
ment."— Eccles.  iv.  9, 

A  lover  of  the  law  will  always  have  an  eye  to  the 
intent  of  the  law.t 

*  Isaiah  xxviii.  6.  f  Matthew  xii.  3. 


o- 


o- 


IRIDAY   MEDITATIONS 

ORDINATION. 


■o 


A 


Question  from  the  Office  of  Ordination. — Will  you  be  faithful  in  ordaining, 

sending,  or  laying  hands  upon  others  ? 
Answer. — I  will  so  be,  by  the  help  of  God 

Almighty  God,  who  knowest  the  hearts  of  men, 
govern  my  mind,  that  I  may  faithfully  discharge  this 
great  trust ;  that  neither  through  fear,  favour,  inter- 
est, or  negligence,  I  may  ever  promote  any  person 
to  the  sacred  charge  of  Christ's  flock. 

Bless  all  those  who  have  already  given  themselves 
to  Thy  immediate  service,  and  labour  with  me  in  this 
ministration ;  be  with  us,  and  guide  us,  and  help  us, 
for  Thy  promise  sake,  for  Thine  honour's  sake,  and 
for  the  sake  of  Jesus  Christ,  that  M^e  may  teach  well, 
and  that  we  may  be  examples  of  all  the  graces  and 
virtues  which  we  recommend  to  others. 

Direct  all  such  as  are  designed  to  serve  at  Thine 
altar;  sanctify  their  persons,  their  studies,  their  in- 
tentions, and  affections. 


-O 


Q p 

16y  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

And  grant  that  no  un worthiness  in  me  may  ever 
hinder  Thy  gifts  and  graces  from  descending  upon 
those  whom  I  shall  ordain  to  Thy  service,  for  Jesus 
Christ's  sake.     Amen. 

"  O  Lord,  give  us  pastors  according  to  Thine  own 
heart,  which  shall  feed  us  with  knowledge  and  under- 
standing."— Jeremiah  iii.  15. 

Ministers  beino;  the  officers  of  God's  household, 
we  must  depend  upon  Him  in  the  choice  of  them, 
and  not  upon  human  motives. 

''  And  when  they  had  fasted  and  prayed,  and  laid 
their  hands  on  them,  they  sent  them  away." — Acts 
xiii,  3. 

All  Christians  being  concerned  in  this  affair,  all 
ought  to  fast  and  pray,  in  order  to  have  faithful  pas- 
tors.* 

Apostolical  usages  ought  to  be  kept  up  to,  as  pro- 
ceedinor  from  Jesus  Christ  Himself 

"  Pray  ye  the  Lord  of  the  harvest,  that  He  will 
send  forth  labourers  into  His  harvest." — Matthew 
ix.  38. 

O  gracious  Lord,  look  down  in  mercy  upon  this 
church,  at  this  time.  Provide  it  with  faithful  la- 
bourers, such  as  shall  have  a  true  compassion  for  the 
souls  committed  to  their  care,  and  a  knowledge  and 
zeal  answerable  to  the  account  they  are  to  give. 

Grant  that  we  may  all  preach  "  the  truth  as  it  is 
in  Jesus." 

Give  a  blessing  to  our  labours,  that  we  may  see 


duesnel. 


-o 


o— 0 

FRIDAY    MEDITATIONS.  169 

the  fruits  of  them  in  the  repentance  and  conversion 
of  ourselves  and  of  all  sinners. 

Make  us  truly  sensible,  that  when  w^e  labour  for 
our  flock,  we  labour  for  ourselves,  and  for  Thy  glory. 

And  pardon  us,  gracious  God,  whereinsoever  we 
have  been  wanting  in  any  part  of  our  duty. 

Awaken,  and  touch  all  our  hearts  most  power- 
fully from  above,  that  we  may  not  forget  our  ordi- 
nation vows. 

And  for  Jesus  Christ's  sake,  grant  that  I  may  not 
be  answerable  for  the  sins,  and  the  dreadful  mis- 
chiefs that  may  follow,  if  not  hindered  by  Thy  grace. 
Amen. 

The  conversion  of  souls  is  Thine,  O  Lord,  and 
not  ours  ;  prosper  Thou  Thine  own  work.  It  is  not 
in  us  to  save  souls. 

Let  us  not  sacrifice  to  our  own  net,  but  use  the 
means,  and  ascribe  all  the  glory  to  God  ;  we  of  our- 
selves have  nothing  whereof  to  glory. 

"  And  it  came  to  pass  in  those  days,  that  He  went 
out  into  a  mountain  to  pray,  and  continued  all  night 
in  prayer  to  God.  And  when  it  was  day.  He  called 
unto  Him  His  disciples  :  and  of  them  He  chose 
twelve,  whom  He  also  named  Apostles  ;"  (Luke  vi. 
12,  13,)  viz.  That  their  very  title  might  put  them  in 
mind  of  their  mission. 

O  blessed  Lord  and  Master,  let  Thy  tender  re- 
gard for  Thy  Church  make  me  ever  solicitous  at  the 
throne  of  grace,  in  behalf  of  those  I  send  into  Thy 
vineyard  ;   and  grant  that  no  unworthiness  in  me  may 

8 

O O 


o — -o 

170  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

hinder  Thy  gifts  and  graces  from  descending  upon 
those  whom  I  shall  ordain  to  Thy  service. 

For  the  sake  of  this  church,  which  thou  hast 
purchased  with  Thy  most  precious  blood,  enable 
them  for  the  work  unto  which  they  are  called,  that 
they  may  teach  well,  and  that  they  may  live  well, 
and  be  examples  of  all  the  holy  graces  and  virtues 
which  they  shall  recommend  to  others. 

Sanctify  their  persons  and  their  labours,  that  they 
may  be  respected  by  their  people  ;  and,  for  Thy 
authority  in  them,  be  heard  and  obeyed,  that  they 
may  be  able  to  give  a  comfortable  account  at  the 
great  day.     Amen. 

"  Jesus  said  unto  Peter,  Lovest  thou  Me  ?  Yea, 
Lord,  Thou  knowest  that  I  love  Thee.  He  said 
unto  him.  Feed  My  sheep." — John  xxi.  15. 

O  Sovereign  Pastor,  Who  lovest  and  gavest  Thy 
life  for  us,  make  our  love  for  Thee,  and  our  care  of 
Thy  sheep,  so  great  and  sincere,  that  we  may  feed 
them  constantly,  and  diligently  watch  over  them, 
that  not  one  of  them  may  be  lost  through  my  neglect, 
or  the  fault  of  those  whom  I  send  into  Thy  service. 

Make  us  every  day  mindful  of  our  charge ;  and 
every  day  more  able  to  perform  it,  remembering  the 
account  we  must  give.  Grant  this  for  the  glory  of 
Thy  grace,  and  the  good  of  Thy  Church,  which 
Thou  hast  purchased  with  Thy  most  precious  blood. 

"  Jesus  said  unto  him  the  third  time,  Lovest  thou 
Me  ?"— John  xxi.  7. 

Though  Jesus  Christ  knew  Peter's  heart,  yet  he 
asked   him  three  times  ivhethcr  he  loved  Him  ?    To 

6 o 


Q O 

FRIDAY    MEDITATIONS.  171 

teach  those  to  whom  the  power  of  ordaining  belongs, 
to  be  very  solicitous  and  careful,  and  not  content 
themselves  with  a  slight  inquiry  into  the  dispositions 
and  qualifications  of  those  who  are  to  have  the  care 
of  souls  committed  to  them. 

It  being  entirely  at  the  bishop's  discretion  whether 
he  will  admit  any  one  to  the  order  of  priest  or  deacon, 
and  being  not  obliged  to  give  any  reason  for  his  re- 
fusal ;*  he  will  be  more  accountable  to  God,  both  for 
ordaining  unfit  persons,  and  for  any  prejudice  against 
such  as  are  worthy. 

As  we  consult  God,  as  Jesus  Christ  himself  did, 
when  we  ordain  men  to  His  service,  so  should  we 
consult  Jesus  Christ,  when  we  assign  them  a  place 
in  His  family.  Would  Jesus  Christ  have  given  this 
man  the  charge  of  the  souls  of  this  parish  ? 

That  we  may  have  the  comfort  of  knowing  that 
we  enter  into  the  ministry  by  a  choice  which  pro- 
ceeded from  God,  we  must  have  some  assurance  from 
our  own  hearts,  that  the  glory  of  God,  the  good  of 
souls,  was  in  our  intention,  and  that  we  were  called 
regularly,  and  according  to  the  intention  of  the 
church. 

EMBER    WEEK. 

All  persons  being  concerned  in  the  choice  of  pas- 
tors, every  body  ought  to  pray  for  good  pastors. 

''  Paul  called  to  be  an  Apostle  of  Jesus  Christ 
through  the  will  of  God,  and  Sosthenes  our  brother." 

*  Vide  Clergyman's  Vade-Mecum,  P.  i.  p.  42. 

o o 


o — 

172  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

— 1  Cor.  i,  1.    Not  through  his  own  will — not  through 
motives  of  worldly  lucre,  &.c. 

DEACONS. 

"  Let  these  first  be  proved  ;  then  let  them  use 
the  office  of  a  deacon,  being  found  blameless." — 1 
Timothy  iii.   10. 

It  is  not  sufficient  to  secure  the  dignity  of  the 
ministry  even  in  its  lower  ministries,  that  men  have 
taken  up  virtuous  resolutions,  unless  they  be  also 
proved,  to  see  whether  those  resolutions  will  con- 
tinue, &c. 

N.  B.  To  give  every  person  I  ordain  some  short 
hints,  in  writing,  of  the  nature,  dignity,  several 
branches,  hazard  of  not  discharging  them  faithfully, 
&/C.,  of  the  ministry. 

"  Lo  !  I  am  with  you." — Matt,  xxviii.  20. 

The  chief  care  of  a  minister  of  Christ  should  be, 
not  to  render  himself  unworthy  to  have  Christ  pre- 
sent with  him  in  the  exercise  of  his  ministry. 

''  They  are  not  of  the  world,  even  as  I  am  not  of 
the  world." — John  xvii.  16. 

The  repetition  of  this  truth  ought  to  make  us 
sensible  how  different  our  life  ought  to  be  from  that 
of  worldly  people. 


THE  TRUE  PASTOR. 

"  The  elders  I  exhort :  Feed  the  flock  of  God, 
which  is  among  you,  taking  the  oversight  thereof  not 


-O 


9 

FRIDAY    MEDITATIONS.  173 

by  constraint,  but  willingly ;  not  for  filthy  lucre,  but 
of  a  ready  mind  ;  neither  as  being  lords  over  God's 
heritage,  but  being  ensamples  to  the  flock.  And 
when  the  Chief  Shepherd  shall  appear,  ye  shall  re- 
ceive a  crown  of  glory  that  fadeth  not  away." — 1 
Peter  V.  1,2,  3,  4. 

N.  B.  We  must  feed  the  flock,  not  live  in  idle- 
ness ; — not  with  imperiousness  as  over  subjects,  but 
with  love  as  over  brethren  ;  not  with  an  eye  to  self- 
•  interest,  but  with  regard  to  a  heavenly  reward. 

APOSTLES,    (envoys.) 

So  Jesus  Christ  called  the  twelve  ;  that  the  world 
might  know  from  whom  they  had  their  mission,  and 
that  such  as  are  not  sent  by  Him,  and  by  those  that 
have  their  powers  from  Him,  are  not  His  Apostles. 

"  And  Judas  Iscariot,  which  also  was  the  trai- 
tor."— Luke  vi.  16. 

A  man  may  have  a  lawful  call  to  the  priesthood, 
to  dignities  and  benefices ;  and  yet,  for  want  of 
answering  the  ends  of  his  calling,  may  be  a  traitor 
to  the  church,  to  Christ,  and  to  his  own  soul.  The 
good  Lord  grant  that  I  may  often  think  of  this  with 
great  seriousness  ! 

*'  Can  the  blind  lead  the  blind?"— Luke  vi.  39. 

It  belongs  to  Thee,  O  Holy  Spirit  of  Grace,  to 
send  such  guides  into  Thy  church,  as  may  lead  Thy 
people  in  the  right  way,  and  to  be  the  guide  of  those 
guides.  O  do  so,  for  Thy  mercies'  sake,  to  this 
church  and  people. 

O O 


o ^o 

174  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

Ignorance  in  pastors,  forasmuch  as  it  is  likely  to 
destroy  the  foundation,  is  sometimes  worse  than  vice 
itself,  being  the  occasion  of  superstition,  disorders, 
and  infinite  evil  consequences,  taking  error  for  truth, 
and  truth  for  error. 

N.  B.  Remembering,  that  a  minister  of  Christ 
can  save  himself  but  only  by  labouring  to  save  others. 

The  business  of  the  ministry  is  to  preach,  to 
make  men  love,  and  to  confirm  them  in  the  truths  of 
the  Gospel,  » 

Happy  that  pastor,  vi^hose  life  and  zeal  and 
labours,  do  all  testify  that  he  loves  his  flock,  and  that 
he  loves  them  for  Christ's  sake. 

Nothing  can  supply  the  want  of  such  a  pastor's 
presence. 

They  whom  God  by  a  terrible  judgment,  leaves 
to  enter  into  the  ministry  solely  of  themselves,  are 
generally  puffed  up  with  a  carnal  notion  of  its  dig- 
nity ;  while  they  that  through  His  mercy  are  called  to 
it,  at  the  same  time  that  they  know  its  dignity,  are 
humbled  under  a  sense  of  its  weight,  and  the  account 
that  they  must  one  day  give. 

Such  as  the  heart  of  the  pastor  is,  such  is  his  be- 
haviour. 

He  who  suffers  the  priesthood  to  become  vile  in 
his  own  person,  does  not  remember  that  he  is  an 
ambassador  of  Christ.  The  dignity  is  great,  and  so 
ought  the  sanctity  to  be,  of  one  who  is  in  Christ's 
stead.* 


*  2  Corinthians  v.  20. 


o 


o- o 

FRIDAY    MEDITATIONS.  175 

"  Giving  no  offence  in  any  thing,  that  the  minis- 
try be  not  blamed." — 2  Corinthians  vi.  3. 

A  pastors  life  must  not  contradict  his  doctrine. 
He  must  preach  by  his  actions. 

"  In  all  things  approving  ourselves  as  the  minis- 
ters of  God  in  much  patience,  in  afflictions,  in  ne- 
cessities, in  distresses,  in  stripes,  in  imprisonments, 
in  tumults,  in  labours,  in  watchings,  in  fastings  ;  by 
pureness,  by  knowledge,  by  long-suffering,  by  kind- 
ness, by  the  Holy  Ghost,  by  love  unfeigned,  by  the 
word  of  truth,  [preaching  it  sincerely,]  by  the  power 
of  God,  [depending  entirely  upon  His  assistance,]  by 
the  armour  of  rjo-hteousness  on  the  rio-ht  hand  and 
on  the  left,  [defending  us  both  in  prosperity  and  in 
adversity,]  by  honour  and  dishonour,  by  evil  report 
and  good  report ;  as  deceivers,  and  yet  true ;  as  un- 
known, but  yet  well  known  ;  as  dying,  and  behold, 
we  live  ;  as  chastened,  and  not  killed  ;  [believing  that 
God  chastens  His  servants  not  to  destroy  them ;]  as 
sorrowful,  yet  always  rejoicing ;  [rejoicing  in  afflic- 
tions ;]  as  poor,  yet  making  many  rich  ;  [with  true, 
not  perishing  riches  ;]  as  having  nothing,  and  yet 
possessing  all  things ;"  [possessing  all  things  in  de- 
pending upon  God.] — 2  Corinthians  vi.  4,  5,  &c. 

"  Lay  hands  suddenly  on  no  man,  neither  be  par- 
takers of  other  men's  sins  :  keep  thyself  pure." — 1 
Timothy  v.  22. 

A  bishop  engages  to  answer  before  God  for  such 
persons  as  he  by  advice,  ordination,  &:,c.,  causes  to 
enter  into  a  state  of  life  so  very  hazardous,  and  which 
requires  so  great  a  stock  of  virtues. 

O : 


o . 

176  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

It  is  happy  for  a  minister  of  God,  that  the  life  he 
is  to  lead,  and  the  very  outward  acts  he  has  vowed  to 
perform,  will  help  to  change  his  heart,  and  create  in 
him  those  dispositions  which  will  make  him  like  his 
Great  Master. 

For  instance,  he  has  solemnly  promised  to  read 
the  Holy  Scriptures  daily  ;  he  will  therefore  have 
daily  before  his  eyes  the  precepts,  the  instructions, 
the  example  of  Christ ;  the  rewards  and  punish- 
ments of  the  life  to  come. 

He  is  obliged  to  catechize  ;  and  the  more  careful 
he  is  to  instruct  others,  the  more  effectually  he  will 
learn  himself  how  far  we  are  fallen  from  God,  and 
what  pains  we  must  take  to  be  restored  to  the  image 
and  favour  of  God. 

He  has  promised  to  lead  a  holy  and  exemplary 
life.  If  he  does  not  do  this  sincerely,  he  will  be  the 
scorn  of  men  now,  and  of  devils  hereafter. 

It  will  be  impossible  to  converse  with  poor  and 
needy  people,  and  to  seek  out  for  help  for  them, 
without  partaking  of  the  spirit  and  compassion  of  the 
blessed  Jesus,  who  laid  down  His  life  for  them. 

If  he  is  careful  to  read  Divine  service  distinctly, 
with  deliberation  and  gravity,  it  will  beget  devotion 
in  himself,  as  well  as  in  those  that  hear  him. 

If  his  sermons  be  plain  and  practical,  they  will 
affect  his  own  heart,  as  well  as  the  hearts  of  those  he 
preaches  to. 

Every  child  he  baptizes  puts  him  in  mind  of  the 
vows  that  are  upon  himself 

And  he  cannot  administer  the  other  sacrament  as 

O O 


o- — — o 

FRIDAY   MEDITATIONS.  177 

he  ought  to  do,  but  it  must  needs  fill  his  soul  with  a 
thousand  holy  ideas  and  devout  thoughts ; — with  a 
holy  fear  lest  he  should  offer  the  prayers  of  the  faith- 
ful with  polluted  lips,  or  distribute  the  bread  of  life 
with  unclean  hands  ; — with  an  ardent  love  for  Jesus 
Christ,  whose  love  and  death  he  commemorates  ; — 
with  a  perfect  charity  for  all  the  world  for  whom  He 
died.  And  the  oftener  he  administers  this  sacrament, 
the  more  he  will  find  his  graces  increased. 

In  visiting  sick  and  dying  persons  he  will  be  put 
in  mind  of  his  own  mortality ;  and  in  fitting  them  as 
he  ought  to  do  for  the  account  they  are  going  to 
give,  he  will  be  put  in  mind  of  the  much  greater  he 
is  himself  to  ffive. 

When  he  exhorts,  reproves,  admonishes  others,  it 
will  bring  to  his  mind  the  words  of  the  Apostle,"  Thou 
that  teachest  another,  teachest  thou  not  thyself?" 

When  he  calls  to  mind,  that  he  has  promised  all 
faithful  diligence,  &:-c.,  he  will  give  himself  wholly  to 
these  things,  and  will  be  ashamed  to  be  found  wholly 
taken  up  with  business  which  no  way  relates  to  the 
salvation  of  souls. 

If  he  is  diligent  in  prayer,  which  he  promised  to 
be,  God  will  certainly  enlighten  his  mind  with  saving 
truth  and  grace. 

In  short,  if  he  has  an  ardent  desire  to  save  souls, 
and  really  strives  to  do  it  as  effectually  as  he  can,  he 
will  be  beloved  of  God,  assisted  by  His  Spirit ;  he 
will  see  the  fruit  of  his  labours  ;  he  will  secure  his 
own  peace  and  hope,  and  will  give  an  account  with 
joy  when  his  Lord  calls  for  him. 

o-~ — O 


o o 

178  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

One  of  the  most  certain  marks  of  a  Divine  call 
is,  when  it  is  the  full  purpose  of  a  man's  heart  to  live 
for  Jesus  Christ  and  His  Church. 

"  They  are  not  of  the  world,  even  as  I  am  not  of 
the  world." — John  xvii.  16. 

O  Lord,  make  us  truly  sensible  how  very  differ- 
ent our  lives  ought  to  be  from  the  lives  of  worldly 
people,  that  we  may  avoid  their  maxims,  all  that  is 
curious,  useless,  light,  and  vain,  and  live  up  to  our 
character. 

Mercy  and  tenderness  for  sinners,  and  faithful- 
ness to  the  justice  of  God,  are  characters  inseparable 
in  a  true  pastor. 

''  The  good  shepherd  giveth  his  life  for  his  sheep." 
— John  X.  11. 

He  gives  his  life  by  giving  his  labour,  in  taking 
all  occasions  of  instructing  them  ;  in  employing  his 
thoughts  for  their  good ;  in  praying  for  them  con- 
tinually, and  rendering  God  propitious  to  them  :  in 
sacrificing  his  ease  and  peace  for  them,  by  delivering 
truths  which  the  world  will  not  receive  without  un- 
kind returns  ;  he  gives  up  the  dearest  friendships, 
when  they  stand  in  competition  with  truth  and  right- 
eousness ;  he  gives  up  all  worldly  satisfactions,  when 
he  does  not  look  upon  what  is  lawful,  but  what  is 
expedient ;  he  sacrifices  his  inclinations,  though 
never  so  innocent,  rather  than  offend  any ;  he  sub- 
mits to  the  humility  and  poverty  of  the  Gospel,  that 
he  may  give  no  example  of  pride  and  luxury  to  his 
flock  ;  he  dares  not  be  even  a  witness  of  disorders, 
lest  he  should  encourage  them  by  his  presence.  It 
C 


i 


o- 


-Q 


FRIDAY    MEDITATIONS. 


179 


is  thus  he  must  be  the  light  of  the  world,  and  with- 
out this  he  cannot  satisfy  the  duties  of  his  charge ; 
and  it  is  thus  he  is  to  give  his  life  for  his  sheep. 

*'  Take  nothing  for  their  journey  save  a  staff  only ; 
no  scrip,  no  bread,  no  money  in  their  purse." — Mark 
vi.  8. 

The  ecclesiastical  ministry  requires  a  great  dis- 
engagement from  the  world,  to  take  away  all  sus- 
picion, that  the  clergy  act  only  out  of  self-interest. 
Whoever  is  not  ready  to  part  with  all,  rather  than 
be  wanting  to  his  duty,  is  not  worthy  to  be  a  suc- 
cessor to  the  Apostles. 

We  shall  never  be  able  to  establish  the  kingdom 
of  God  in  the  hearts  of  men,  so  lonor  as  we  do  not 
appear  fully  persuaded  of  those  truths  which  we 
preach. 

FEES. 

Can.  135.  No  fee  or  money  shall  be  received, 
either  by  the  archbishop  or  any  bishop,  either  directly 
or  indirectly,  for  admitting  of  any  into  sacred  orders, 
nor  any  to  his  servants  or  officers  above  ten  shillings 
for  parchment,  wax,  &c. 

For  letters  testimonial  of  ordination  are  no  part 
of  the  ordination,  but  only  taken  afterwards  for  the 
security  of  the  person  ordained,  which  if  he  neglect 
to  take,  it  is  at  his  own  peril.* 


*  Codex  Can.  Eccl.  Ang.  p.  177. 


-o 


9 ° 

180  SACRA    PRIVATA. 


ORDINATION. 


The  example  of  Jesus  Christ,  before  he  ordained 
the  Apostles,  shows  us,  that  in  this  choice  we  ought 
to  depend  upon  God,  and  pray  for  His  direction  and 
blessing. 


CATECHIZING. 


Can.  59.  Ministers  shall,  every  Sunday  evening 
and  holy-day,  for  half  an  hour  at  least,  examine  and 
instruct  in  the  Church  Catechism ;  and  he  that  ne- 
glects to  do  so,  after  reproof,  to  be  first  suspended, 
afterwards  excommunicated. 

The  neglect  of  this  duty  makes  the  discourses  of 
the  pulpit  of  very  little  use.  People  do  not  under- 
stand the  very  words  made  use  of  in  the  Gospel. 


INSTITUTION 

Persons  to  be  instituted  shall  exhibit  orders  and 
testimonials,  and  be  examined.* 

REASONS    FOR    REFUSING    INSTITUTIONS. 

LacJc  of  learning ;  of  which  the  bishop  is  the 
sole  judge,  and  not  accountable  to  any  temporal 
court,  but  only  to  a   superior  Spiritual  Judge.     And 

*    Can.  39. 


-o 


O O 

FRIDAY    MEDITATIONS.  181 

a  person's  being  ordained,  licensed,  and  approved  by 
another  bishop,  does  not  take  away  the  right  which 
every  bishop  has  to  examine  and  judge.* 

Lack  of  language  ;  which  renders  a  person  inca- 
pable of  the  cure.  Nor  does  it  avail,  that  the  lan- 
guage may  be  learnt,  or  that  the  duty  might  be  dis- 
charged by  a  curate.  And  the  Canon  Law  requires, 
that  where  there  is  a  mixture  of  languages,  the  priest 
shall  understand  both.t 

OTHER    CAUSES. 

Whatever  is  sufficient  to  deprive,  is  sufficient 
cause  to  refuse  institution. 

Mala  in  se  : — Incontinence,  drunkenness,  murder, 
manslaughter,  heresy,  schism,  simony,  perjury. 

The  bishop  must  signify  the  cause  of  his  refusal 
specially,  that  the  proper  court,  if  application  be 
made  elsewhere,  may  be  able  to  judge  whether  the 
refusal  be  just,  except  in  the  case  of  insufficiency  ; 
for  it  has  been  judged  in  parliament,  that  it  is  suf- 
ficient to  set  forth — Quod  persona  in  liter  aturd  minus 
sufficiens  seu  capax  ad  habendam  dictam  ecclesiam. 

The  bishop,  having  the  care  of  all  the  souls  in 
his  diocese,  is  bound  in  conscience  to  see  them  well 
taken  care  of,  by  committing  them  to  fit  persons. 

"  And  they  prayed  and  said.  Thou,  Lord,  who 
knowest  the  hearts  of  all  men,  show  whether  of  these 
two  Thou  hast  chosen." — Acts  i.  24. 

Should   not   this   make   patrons   and  bishops   to 

*  Codex  p.  850.  f  Codex  p.  851. 

o — o 


Q O 

182  SACllA    PRIVATA. 

tremble,  to  see  with  what  caution,  devotion,  Slc,  even 
the  Apostles  themselves  proceeded  in  the  choice  of 
fit  persons  to  serve  in  the  sacred  ministry  of  the 
church  1 

A    CHRISTIAN    PRIEST. 

Let  him  remember,  that  he  himself  is  a  man  and 
a  sinner  ;  that  he  is  ordained  for  men  only  in  things 
pertaining  to  God ;  that  he  is  not  to  live  an  idle  life, 
but  to  offer,  &c.,  that  is,  to  perform  the  duties  of  his 
calling ;  to  appease  the  justice  of  God,  by  offering  the 
prayers,  the  oblations,  &lc.,  of  the  people  ;  to  have 
bowels  of  compassion  towards  sinners  :  to  instruct 
the  ignorant,  and  them  that  are  out  of  the  way ; 
never  to  forget  his  own  infirmities,  that  he  may 
treat  sinners  with  compassion ;  to  pray  much  for 
himself  and  for  his  people  ;  to  stay  till  he  is  called 
into  the  ministry  ;  it  is  an  honour,  and  to  be  confer- 
red as  it  was  on  Aaron ;  to  keep  his  flock,  by  his 
vigilance,  from  falling  into  ignorance  in  relation  to 
the  truths  of  Christianity  ;  to  suit  his  instructions  to 
the  capacities  of  his  hearers,  and  to  their  peculiar 
wants  :  and  not  to  fill  their  heads  with  vain  amuse- 
ments, which  signify  little  to  their  salvation.* 

O  Lord,  abandon  not  Thy  flock  to  wolves,  but 
send  them  pastors  after  Thine  own  heart. 

''  The  Lord  said  unto  Aaron,  Thou  and  thy  sons 
shall  bear  the  iniquity  of  the  sanctuary." — Numbers 
xviii.  I.     That  is,  they  shall  carry  them  away  by  the 

*  Hebrews  v. 

6 o 


0 o 

FRIDAY    MEDITATIONS.  183 

sacrifices  which  they  shall  offer  for  them,  especially 
on  the  day  of  expiation. 

"  Fear  the  Lord  with  all  thy  soul,  and  reverence 
his  priests. — Love  Him  that  made  thee,  with  all  thy 
strength,  and  forsake  not  His  ministers  ;  but  give 
the  priest  his  portion  as  it  is  commanded." — Ecclus. 
vii.  29. 

A  lawful  call  affords  us  a  good  ground  to  hope 
for  all  necessary  assistance,  and  grace  to  do  our  duty, 
and  for  mercy  for  all  our  involuntary  defects. 


CLERGY. 

I  beseech  Thee,  O  God,  for  them,  and  for  myself; 
that,  in  the  exercise  of  our  ministry,  we  may  depend 
much  upon  Thee ;  that  we  may  learn  from  Thee 
what  we  ought  to  speak  concerning  Thee ;  that  we 
may  constantly  speak  the  truth,  boldly  rebuke  vice, 
and  patiently  suffer  for  righteousness'  sake  ;  that  we 
may  live  and  act  as  in  the  place  of  Christ,  doing 
nothing  unbecoming  that  character  ;  and  that  we 
may  preserve  an  apostolical  firmness  of  mind  under 
the  vexations  and  persecutions  of  this  world.     Amen. 

FAULTS    OF    THE    CLERGY. 

Let  it  be  considered  what  is  the  great  design  of 
the  generality  of  the  clergy  of  these  days  : — To  ap- 
pear learned  rather  than  pious ;  to  get  preferment, 

O ■ O 


O —Q 

184  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

riches,  and  to  live  at  ease.  This  makes  them  satis- 
fied with  a  mere  speculative  knowledge  in  divinity. 

"  We  have  toiled  all  the  night,  and  have  taken 
nothings." — Luke  v.  5. 

And  it  is  much  to  be  feared  that  the  little  good 
we  see  done  by  our  sermons  is  owing  to  the  neglect 
of  praying  for  God's  blessing  upon  our  labours. 

Sermons  should  be  plain,  practical,  and  tending 
to  the  salvation  of  those  that  hear  them. 

Remember,  that  all  useful  truths  must  come  from 
the  Spirit  of  truth,  and  therefore  are  to  be  prayed  for. 

Do  holy  things  after  a  holy  manner.  He  that 
reads  the  service  negligently,  betrays  a  great  want  of 
piety  in  himself,  and  begets  contempt  and  indevotion 
in  others. 

THE    lord's    supper. 

Christians  are  too  often  admitted  without  know- 
ing the  meaning  of  this  holy  institution.  The  con- 
sequence is,  they  fancy  they  are  good  Christians,  and 
are  in  danger  of  perishing  without  knowing  it. 

LIVES    OF    THE    CLERGY. 

They  should  consider,  that  they  are  taken  from 
amongst  men,  to  minister  in  things  pertaining  to  God, 
and  therefore  are  not  to  live  like  those  from  whom 
they  are  taken.  They  are  restrained  from  many 
things,  which  others  practise  without  reproach  or 
scruple. 

0 O 


? 

FRIDAY    MEDITATIONS.  185 

The  maxims  of  the  world  are  not  to  be  our  rule. 

To  desire  to  be  esteemed,  to  get  as  much  of  this 
world  as  we  well  can ;  to  stick  at  nothing  to  gain  an 
end,  to  despise  those  below  us  ;  to  live  without  taking 
the  cross,  without  self-denial,  &-c. ;  to  admire  what 
the  world  admires.  By  these  things  the  ministry  is 
blamed  and  brought  into  contempt. 

Look  at  home  !  a  sad  reproach  where  occasion  is 
given. 

Remember  that  a  contempt  of  the  Clergy  will  be 
attended  with  a  contempt  of  the  Gospel,  and  of  God 
Himself  at  last.  More  sinners  have  been  converted 
by  holy  than  by  learned  men.  It  is  the  greatest  pre- 
sumption to  pretend  to  heal  others  of  a  distemper  I 
labour  under  myself. 

"  Which  of  you  convinceth  me  of  sin  ?" — John 
viii.  46. 

Here  is  a  pattern  of  a  pastor. 

He  who  would  edify  by  his  sermons,  must  be  that 
same  virtuous,  sober,  serious,  pious  man  in  his  life 
and  conversation  ;  he  will  then  be  heard  with  respect 
and  reverence. 

If  a  Clergyman  is  eager  after  pleasures,  the  world 
and  its  idols,  trifling  and  vain  in  life,  all  he  says  from 
the  pulpit  will  signify  nothing. 

He  that  religiously  practises  himself  what  he 
teaches  others,  preaches  effectually. 

No  man  can  teach  well,  who  does  not  live  well. 

It  is  true,  the  faith  is  not  built  upon  the  lives  of 
those  that  preach  it,  but  upon  the  word  of  God.  A 
bad  life  exposes  Christians  to  great  temptations,  &/C. 

O O 


Q . Q 

186  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

"  Simon,  lovest  thou  Me  ?"  ^c. — John  xxi.  16. 

This  should  teach  us,  that  nothing  but  a  sincere 
love  for  God,  and  for  the  souls  of  men,  which  He 
loved  so  w^ell  as  to  redeem  them  by  His  ovi^n  Son, 
can  carry  us  through  the  work  of  the  ministry. 

How  shall  we  attain  to  such  a  love  ?  By  prayer ; 
by  reading  the  Scriptures ;  by  instructing  the  poor, 
the  young,  after  such  a  manner  as  to  affect  our  own 
hearts  ;  by  visiting,  relieving,  comforting  sick  and 
needy  people,  &c.  These  will  pray  for  you,  and  God 
will  hear  their  prayers,  and  increase  His  love,  &lc. 

DIFFICULTIES. 

If  the  motives  which  determined  you  to  take  holy 
orders  were  the  glory  of  God,  and  the  good  of  souls. 
He  will  enable  you  to  bear  and  get  the  better  of  all 
difficulties, 

PREACHER.  SERMONS. 

The  desicrn  of  relicrion  beinor  to  lead  men  to  the 

O  o  C? 

knowledge  of  God,  how  He  is  to  be  v/orshipped, 
appeased,  honoured ;  and  to  make  men  holy,  that 
they  may  be  happy  when  they  die  ;  the  great  business 
of  a  preacher  should  be,  to  show  how  the  Christian 
religion  and  all  its  parts  contribute  to  this  end. 

They  that  recommend  eternal  possessions  to 
others,  ought  to  show  by  their  lives  that  they  are 
themselves  verily  persuaded  of  the  vanity  of  all 
earthly  pleasures,  avoiding  superfluities,  &lc.     Jesus 

Q 


o 

FRIDAY    MEDITATIONS.  187 

Christ  preached  up  the  contempt  of  the  world,  by 
contemning  it  Himself. 

A  pastor's  knowledge  need  not  extend  so  far  as  is 
imagined.  If  he  knows  the  Scriptures,  and  what 
concerns  the  kingdom  of  God,  and  the  way  of  lead- 
ing souls  thither,  he  knows  sufficient. 

We  must  speak  to  the  heart  as  well  as  to  the  un- 
derstanding. While  we  attack  men's  reason  only, 
they  will  hear  with  patience  ;  but  when  we  attack  the 
heart  and  its  corruption,  then  they  are  uneasy. 

I  would  rather  send  away  a  hearer  smiting  his 
breast,  than  please  the  most  learned  audience  with  a 
fine  sermon  against  any  vice. 

Let  people  feel  that  you  are  in  earnest,  that  you 
believe  and  are  deeply  affected  with  the  great  truths 
you  would  recommend. 

Avoid  such  discourses  and  subjects  as  would  di- 
vert the  mind  without  instructing  it. 

Never  consult  your  own  fancy  in  the  choice  of 
subjects,  but  the  necessities  of  your  flock. 

NECESSARY    SUBJECTS. 

A  concern  for  what  may  come  hereafter  ;  a  firm 
hope  of  immortality ;  a  fear  of  a  judgment  to  come, 
and  of  hell  torments. 

Remember,  that  your  own  salvation  depends  very 
much  upon  the  salvation  of  your  flock. 

A  man  may  flatter  himself  with  keeping  fair  with 
the  world,  by  not  telling  them  of  the  danger  they  are 
in.     This  was  not  the  way  of  Jesus  Christ.* 

*  John  vii.  7. 

o o 


o 

188  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

A  preacher  ought  to  advance  nothing  but  what  he 
has  received  from  Jesus  Christ.  "  My  doctrine  is 
not  mine,  but  His  that  sent  me."* 

With  what  truth  can  it  be  said,  that  your  sheep 
hear  your  voice,  when  you  speak  of  matters  above 
their  capacity,  or  in  a  language  or  terms  which  they 
do  not  understand  1 

Can  any  man  imitate  a  greater  master  of  elo- 
quence than  Jesus  Christ  was,  whose  great  excel- 
lence appears  in  making  great  truths  understood  by 
the  meanest  capacity  ? 

The  great  end  of  our  ministry,  and  our  great  de- 
light, should  be  to  destroy  the  kingdom  of  Satan. 

To  have  an  eye  to  the  learned  part  of  our  audi- 
ence, who  will  not  very  likely  profit  by  you,  rather 
than  to  the  poor  in  spirit,  whom  God  designs  to  save, 
is  very  wrong. 

He  that  considers  that  he  is  God's  ambassador  to 
His  people ;  that  he  speaks  from  God  to  them ;  that 
Jesus  Christ  speaks  by  him;  will  labour  with  sincer- 
ity and  devotion  for  the  salvation  of  souls. f 

God  would  have  all  men  see  that  the  success  of 
the  Gospel  depends  upon  His  grace,  and  therefore 
preachers  should  be  humble,  meek,  charitable,  &c. 

It  is  too  often  that  preachers  perplex  those  whom 
they  should  instruct,  either  by  proving  things  which 
want  no  proof — the  being  of  a  God,  &c.,  or  by  pro- 
posing useless  questions  and  doubts ;  or  speaking  of 
things  above  the  capacities  of  the  common  people. 

There  is  a  great  deal  of  difference  betwixt  peo- 

*  John  vii.  16.  t  2  Coriiitliians  ii.  17. 

C> o 


p. o 

FRIDAY    MEDITATIONS.  189 

pie   admiring  a  preacher,  and   being   edified  by  his 
sermons. 


TEST    OF    A    GOOD    PREACHER. 

We  count  him  a  good  physician  whose  patients 
we  see  cured.  If  the  people  are  cured  of  their  in- 
temperance, lying,  &c.,  his  works  will  speak  for  him. 

*'  Neither  is  he  that  planteth  any  thing,  neither 
he  that  watereth,  but  God  that  giveth  the  increase." 
— 1  Cor.  iii.  7. 

We  must  depend  on  God  for  success,  not  take 
that  to  ourselves  which  belongs  to  God  alone. 

It  is  God  who  gives  his  ministers,  such  as  are 
humble,  power  over  the  hearts  and  souls  of  men ; 
when  distrusting  themselves,  they  ascribe  all  the  glo- 
ry to  God. 

We  take  the  work  out  of  the  hands  of  God,  when 
we  are  pleased  with  what  we  have  done,  and  rob  Him 
of  the  honour  due  to  Him  alone. 

There  have  been  many,  who,  without  any  great 
learning  or  eloquence,  yet  by  their  communication  in 
a  humble  and  low  way,  have  instructed  and  converted 
more  than  famous  preachers  ;  for  that  they  preached 
not  themselves,  but  Christ  Jesus,  placing  all  their 
confidence  in  God. 


THE    BLESSING    OF    LEVI. 

"  Bless,  Lord,  his  substance,  and  accept  the  work 

I  8* 

C — O 


o- 


-o 


190 


SACRA    PRIVATA. 


of  his  hands.  Smite  through  the  loins  of  them  that 
rise  up  against  him,  and  of  them  that  hate  him,  that 
they  rise  not  again." — Deut.  xxxiii.  11. 

This  is  a  prophetical  declaration  of  the  dreadful 
punishment  of  such  as  shall  oppose  the  priesthood. 


o- 


-o 


SATURDAY  ME  BIT  ATI  0 1 S . 

ALMS. 


Question  from  the  Office  of  Ordination. — Will  you  show  youiself  gentle,  and 
be  merciful  for  Christ's  sake  to  poor  and  needy  people,  and  to  all  stran- 
gers destitute  of  help  ? 

Answer. — I  will  so  show  myself,  by  God's  help. 

Upon  one  of  the  days  of  the  week,  (zara  fUav 
:Sa^^drwv^')  let  every  one  of  you  lay  by  him  in  store 
as  God  hath  prospered  him.* 

"  Jacob  vowed  a  vow,  saying,  If  God  will  be  with 
me,  and  will  keep  me  in  the  way  that  I  go,  and  will 
give  me  bread  to  eat,  and  raiment  to  put  on,  then 
shall  the  Lord  be  my  God  ;  and  of  all  that  Thou  shalt 
give  me,  I  will  surely  give  the  tenth  unto  Thee." — 
Genesis  xxviii.  20. 

"  But  rather  give  alms  of  such  things  as  you 
have,  (or  as  you  are  able,)  and  all  things  are  clean 
unto  you." — Luke  xi.  4L  That  is,  proportion  your 
alms  to  your  estate,  lest  God  proportion  your  estate 
to  your  alms.t 

''  Sell  that  ye  have,  and  give  alms :  provide  your- 

*  1  Corinthians  xvi.  2.  \  Bishop  Beveridge. 


c- 


o -o 

192  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

selves  bags  which  wax  not  eld ;  a  treasure  m  the  hea- 
vens that  faileth  not,  where  no  thief  approacheth, 
neither  moth  corrupteth.  For  where  your  treasure 
is,  there  will  your  heart  be  also." — Luke  xii.  33. 

This  is  still  a  necessary  Christian  duty,  whatever 
men  think  of  it ;  to  part  with  our  worldly  enjoyments 
for  the  sake  of  Christ. 

To  sell  all ;  that  is,  to  renounce  all  the  pleasures, 
and  pomp,  and  enjoyment,  which  wealth  affords,  as 
if  we  had  actually  parted  with  it;  to  take  to  a  man's 
self  no  more  of  his  estate  than  necessity  requires ; 
and  to  make  the  remainder  the  support  of  the  poor 
and  distressed  : — It  being  utterly  impossible  to  take 
delight  in  the  enjoyments  of  riches,  and  to  love  God 
with  all  the  soul. 

If  God  is  our  only  happiness,  we  shall  of  course 
be  dead,  crucified,  to  the  world. 

Give  to  the  poor,  said  our  Lord  to  the  rich  young 
man  whom  He  loved.  Had  there  been  a  better  way 
of  disposing  of  his  estate,  He  would  certainly  have 
told  him. 

"  Take  heed  that  ye  do  not  your  alms  before 
men,  to  be  seen  of  them.  Let  not  thy  left  hand 
know  what  thy  right  hand  doeth.  Thy  Father, 
which  seeth  in  secret,  Himself  shall  reward  thee 
openly." — Matthew  vi.  1,  2. 

By  vanity  we  lose  both  our  riches  and  our  re- 
ward. It  is  vanity  to  boast  of  our  alms,  and  it  is 
vanity  to  take  pleasure  in  reflecting  upon  them.  It 
is  sufficient  that  God  will  remember  them. 


-O 


— o 

SATURDAY    MEDITA.TIONS.  193 

"  It  is  better  to  give  alms  than  to  lay  up  gold." — 
Tobit  xii.  8. 

**  If  there  shall  be  a  poor  man  within  any  of  thy 
gates,  thou  shalt  not  harden  thy  heart,  nor  shut  thy 
hand  from  thy  poor  brother  ;  but  thou  shalt  open  thy 
hand  wide  unto  him,  and  shalt  freely  lend  him  suffi- 
cient for  his  need.  Thy  heart  shall  not  be  grieved 
when  thou  givest  unto  him,  because  that  for  this 
thing  the  Lord  thy  God  shall  bless  thee  in  all  thy 
works." — Deuteronomy  xv.  8. 

*'  Blessed  be  the  man  that  provideth  for  the  sick 
and  needy  ;  the  Lord  shall  deliver  him  in  the  time  of 
trouble." — Psalm  xli.  1. 

"  Blessed  are  the  merciful,  for  they  shall  obtain 
mercy." — Matthew  v.  7. 

"  Bow  down  thine  ear  to  the  poor,  and  give  him 
a  friendly  answer  with  meekness  ;  be  as  a  father  unto 
the  fatherless,  and  as  a  husband  to  the  widow  ;  so 
shalt  thou  be  as  the  son  of  the  Most  High,  and  He 
shall  love  thee  more  than  thy  mother  doth," — Eccle- 
siasticus  iv.  8. 

^'  Lay  up  thy  treasure  according  to  the  command- 
ment. It  shall  bring  thee  more  profit  than  gold,  it 
shall  deliver  thee  from  all  afflictions,  it  shall  fight 
for  thee  against  thine  enemies,"  &c. — Ecclesiasticus 
xxix.  11. 

*'  If  thou  draw  out  thy  soul  to  the  hungry,  and 
satisfy  the  afflicted  soul,  then  shall  thy  light  rise  in 
obscurity,  and  thy  darkness  be  as  the  noon-day. 
And  the  Lord  shall  guide  thee  continually,  and  sat- 
isfy  thy  soul  in  drought,   and  make  fat  thy  bones ;    I 

O O 


o 

194  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

and  thou  shalt  be  like  a  watered  garden,  and  like  a 
spring  of  water,  whose  waters  fail  not." — Isaiah  Iviii. 
10,  ll 

Do  not  imagine  that  all  that  belongs  to  your 
church  belongs  to  you.  You  have  indeed  a  right  to 
live  by  the  altar,  but  not  in  luxury.* 

The  church  has  not  had  worse  enemies,  than 
such  as  have  been  raised  to  estates  out  of  her  patri- 
mony. This  should  open  the  eyes  of  those  who  make 
no  other  use  of  church  livings  than  to  provide  por- 
tions, raise  estates  and  families,  enrich  relations, 
&-C, ;   from  which  practices  the  good  Lord  keep  me. 

The  goods  of  this  world,  much  more  the  goods 
of  the  church,  are  mere  depositums,  put  into  the 
hands  of  men  for  the  common  good — of  the  church 
and  of  mankind.! 

"  Set  your  affections  on  things  above." — Colos- 
sians  iii.  2. 

It  is  more  to  our  advantage  to  have  the  prayers  of 
a  poor,  good  man,  than  the  smiles  of  the  greatest 
man  on  earth. 

"  The  Lord  loveth  the  stranger ;  love  ye  there- 
fore the  stranger  ;  give  him  food  and  raiment,"  &c. 
— Deuteronomy  x.  18,  19. 

"  Sell  what  thou  hast,  and  give  to  the  poor;  and 
thou  shalt  have  treasure  in  heaven  ;  and  come,  take 
up  the  cross,  and  follow  Me." — Mark  x,  21. 

My  God  !  we  think  we  love  Thee  above  all  things, 
when,  without  being  sensible  of  it,  we  love  a  thousand 
things  better ;  but  as  we  hope  for  heaven,  we  must 

*  St.  Bernard,  Ep.  2.  j  Dr.  Moore's  Divine  Dialogues. 

o 


o — o 

SATURDAY    MEDITATIONS.  195 

sacrifice  even  what  we  love  most.  This  is  a  neces- 
sary duty  now ;  and  though  it  be  a  very,  very  difficult 
one,  yet  to  Thee  all  things  are  possible. 

To  sell  is  only  an  expression  for  a  disregard  for 
riches ;  such  as  are,  being  dead  to  the  world,  cruci- 
fied, born  again,  overcome  the  world ;  all  which  de- 
note that  temper  which  Christianity  requires. 

"  Inasmuch  (for  as  often)  as  ye  have  done  it  unto 
one  of  the  least  of  these  my  brethren,  ye  have  done 
it  unto  Me." — Matthew  xxv.  40. 

As  often  ! — Who  then  would  miss  any  occasion  ? 
The  least : — Who  then  would  despise  any  object  ? 
To  me  : — So  that  in  serving  the  poor,  we  serve  Jesus 
Christ.     O  comfortable  declaration  ! 

It  is  not  out  of  cruelty  or  indigence,  that  Christ 
suffers  any  of  His  members  to  want  or  be  in  misery, 
but  to  give  others  an  opportunity  of  exercising  their 
faith  and  their  love,  and  of  making  some  amends  for 
their  mis-expenses  by  their  alms. 

"  Whosoever  shall  give  you  a  cup  of  water  to 
drink  in  My  name,  because  ye  belong  to  Christ ; 
verily,  (with  an  oath  he  assures  us,)  he  shall  not  lose 
his  reward." — Mark  ix.  41. 

This  should  always,  if  possible,  be  our  intention : 
— This  poor,  oppressed,  this  miserable  man,  belongs 
to  Christ.  This  would  wonderfully  enhance  the  value 
of  our  good  deeds  before  God. 

Mercy  is  a  natural  debt,  not  left  to  our  discretion. 
He  that  stands  in  need  of  our  help  is  to  have  it.  In- 
clination, friendship,  vain  generosity,  are  selfish  mo- 
tives. 

6 o 


196  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

The  last  refuore  of  a  sinner  is  Alms :  it  is  an  art 
of  turning  our  master's  goods  innocently  to  our  own 
advantage,  and  "  making  to  ourselves  friends  of  the 
mammon  of  unrighteousness;"  heaven  being  the  pa- 
trimony and  inheritance  of  the  poor,  by  our  alms  we 
engage  them  to  solicit  the  mercy  of  God  for  us. 
This  is  the  only  way  to  sanctify  riches,  which  are 
almost  always  either  the  fruit  or  the  seed  of  unright- 
eousness and  injustice.  And  indeed  we  are  more 
obliged  to  the  poor  than  they  to  us. 

Earthly  riches  are  almost  always  abused  without 
an  extraordinary  grace. 

**  I  fast  twice  in  the  week ;  I  give  tithes  of  all 
that  I  possess." — Luke  xviii.  12. 

Be  very  careful  not  to  be  puffed  up  with  the 
thoughts  of  your  alms.  "  I  give  tithes  of  all  that  I 
possess,"  was  the  effect  of  a  pride  more  prejudicial 
than  the  sins  of  a  publican.  It  is  a  stratagem  of  the 
devil  to  set  before  us  a  sight  of  our  own  good  works, 
and  to  deprive  us  of  that  humility  which  alone  can 
render  us  acceptable  to  God. 

"  And  Jesus  said.  Of  a  truth  I  say  unto  you,  that 
this  poor  widow  hath  cast  in  more  than  they  all  :  for 
all  these  of  their  abundance  cast  in  unto  the  offerings 
of  God ;  but  she  of  her  penury  hath  cast  in  all  the 
living  that  she  had." — Luke  xxi.  3. 

God  judges  not  by  the  greatness  of  the  gift,  but 
by  the  heart  that  offers  it. 

The  applause  which  the  great  gifts  of  the  rich 
receive,  the  complacency  they  take  in  them,  and  the 


-o 

I 


O 


o- 


SATURDAY    MEDITATIONS.  197 


little  religion  wherewith  they  are  too  often  compa- 
nied,  lessen  them  in  the  sight  of  God. 

The  rich  indeed  may  give  much,  and  reserve 
much  for  themselves.  The  poor,  who  gives  all, 
reserves  nothing  to  himself,  but  faith  in  God's  pro- 
vidence. 

God  magnifies  the  power  of  His  grace  in  disen- 
gaging a  soul  from  the  love  of  riches  :  O  my  God  ! 
manifest  this  power  upon  me  ;  raise  my  soul  above 
the  fears  of  poverty,  and  let  me  have  the  greatest  part 
of  my  treasure  in  heaven. 

Shut  my  heart,  O  Jesus,  against  the  love  of 
worldly  riches. 

"  But  now  I  go  unto  Jerusalem  to  minister  (that 
is,  to  carry  alms)  unto  the  saints." — Romans  xv.  25. 

So  great  an  Apostle  is  not  at  all  afraid  that  he 
should  debase  his  character  in  carrying  of  alms. 

A  Christian,  who  considers  all  other  Christians 
as  one  body  in  Jesus  Christ,  will  cheerfully  contri- 
bute even  to  the  necessities  of  the  greatest,  remotest 
strangers. 

God  often  spares  the  rich  for  the  sake  of  the 
poor.    To  the  poor,  therefore,  the  rich  stand  indebted. 

A  rich  man,  if  a  good  man,  is  more  afraid  of  not 
finding  fit  persons  to  receive  his  alms,  than  a  poor 
man  is  of  not  finding  persons  to  bestow  alms  upon 
him. 

We  honour  Jesus  Christ  in  His  poor,  when  we 
treat  them  kindly  and  help  them. 

The  very  best  of  men  are  only  instruments  in 
God's  hands,  to  receive  and  to  give  what  God  bestows 

O -O 


O Q 

198  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

upon  them.  And  this  they  should  do  without  any 
desire  of  glory  or  self-interest. 

Let  us  make  light  of  money  and  riches,  and  send 
before  us  into  the  heavenly  treasures,  where  neither 
moth  nor  rust  doth  corrupt ;  where  neither  tyrants 
nor  thieves  can  take  it  from  us ;  but  where  it  will  be 
kept  to  our  eternal  advantage,  under  the  custody  of 
God  himself.* 

Thou,  O  Lord,  hast  been  all  mercy  to  me ;  grant 
that  I  may  be  all  mercy  to  others  for  Thy  sake. 

UPON    GIVING    OF    ALMS. 

Not  unto  me,  but  unto  Thee,  O  God,  be  the 
thanks  and  praise  and  glory. 


TITHES. 

"  So  hath  the  Lord  (viz.,  Jesus  Christt)  ordained 
that  they  which  preach  the  Gospel  should  live  of  the 
Gospel."—!  Cor  ix.  14. 

That  is,  out  of  the  labours  and  revenues  of  those 
to  whom  they  preach  the  Gospel.  And  this  (upon 
principles  of  justice  as  well  as  of  religion  :  if  thou 
hast  much,  give  plenteously)  as  God  has  prospered 
you,  (that  is,  proportionably  to  your  incomes.) — This 
no  human  law  can  set  aside. 

There  is  a  great  deal  of  difference  betwixt  being 
exempt  by  law  and  exempt  in  conscience. 

*  Lactantius.  f  Matthew  x.  10. 


o 


O Q 

SATURDAY    MEDITATIONS.  199 

O  Lord,  who  hast  graciously  allowed  us  a  recom- 
pense for  our  labours,  make  me  a  faithful  steward  of 
that  part  of  Thy  revenues  committed  to  my  charge, 
that  I  may  give  Thy  servants  their  portion  of  meat 
in  due  season  ;  and  that  I  may  not  feed  myself  or 
family  with  that  which  belongs  to  Thy  poor. 

But,  above  all,  I  pray  God  give  me  grace  to 
preach  the  Gospel  as  well  as  live  of  it ;  and  that 
when  my  Lord  cometh.  He  may  find  me  so  doing. 
Amen. 

By  what  right  can  those  who  do  nothing  at  all 
claim  a  share  of  those  tithes  which  are  by  Jesus 
Christ  appointed  for  the  propagation  of  the  Gospel  ? 
— To  satisfy  avarice,  ambition,  luxury,  or  pleasures, 
with  these,  is  no  better  than  sacrilege.* 

*'  When  ye  take  of  the  children  of  Israel,  the 
tithes  which  I  have  given  you  from  them  for  your 
inheritance,  then  ye  shall  offer  up  a  heave-offering  of 
it  for  the  Lord,  even  a  tenth  part  of  the  tithe." — 
Numb,  xviii.  26. 

"  The  Lord  (that  is,  that  which  God  hath  re- 
served unto  Himself)  is  their  inheritance." — Deut. 
xviii.  2. 

This  is  said  to  show,  that  the  priests  had  as  good 
a  right  to  the  tithes  and  offerings  as  any  of  the  other 
tribes  had  to  their  land,  they  being  both  the  gift  of 
God. 

''  When  thou  hast  made  an  end  of  tithino-  all  the 
tithes  of  thine  increase  the  third  year,,  which  is  the 


*     Can.   Apost.      "  Omnium    negotiorum    ecclesiasticorum    episcopus 
habeat,  et  ea,  veiuc  Deo  contemplante,  dispenset." 


o 


200  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

year  of  tithing,  and  hast  given  it  unto  the  Levite, 
the  stranger,  the  fatherless,  and  the  widow,  that  they 
may  eat  within  thy  gates,  and  be  filled  ;  then  thou 
shalt  say  before  the  Lord  thy  God,  I  have  brought 
away  the  hallowed  things  out  of  my  house,  and  also 
have  given  them  unto  the  Levite,  and  unto  the 
stranger,  to  the  fatherless,  and  to  the  widow,  accord- 
ing to  all  thy  commandments. "-^Deut.  xxvi.  12,  13. 

"  Look  down  from  Thy  holy  habitation,  from 
heaven,  and  bless  Thy  people  Israel." — Deut. 
xxvi.   15. 

What  care  is  here  taken,  that  men  shall  not  con- 
found the  things  that  belonor  to  God  with  those  that 
they  may  lawfully  convert  to  their  own  use ;  and 
indeed  a  great  deal  more  depends  on  this  than  men 
are  aware  of,  or  are  willing  to  believe. 

"  The  workman  is  worthy  of  his  meat." — Mat- 
thew X.  10. 

This  is  a  matter  of  justice  as  well  as  of  Divine 
right;  but  then  observe,  it  is  only  he  that  labours, 
not  he  that  is  idle,  who  has  a  right  to  the  revenues  of 
the  church. 

Men  that  are  liberal,  even  to  profuseness,  to  the 
ministers  of  their  pleasures,  that  think  nothing  too 
much  which  is  laid  out  upon  the  body,  upon  trifles 
and  vanity,  will  yet  grudge  him  that  has  the  care  of 
their  souls,  and  who  stands  accountable  for  them,  a 
very  small  part  of  their  incomes.  After  all  it  is  God 
who  maintains  His  own  ministers,  and  not  the  peo- 
ple ;  He  who  gives  all,  having  reserved  to  His  own 
disposal  a  part  of  every  man's  estate,  labour,  &lc. 


6- 


■■_■ 

I 

SATURDAY  MEDITATIONS.  201 

"  Honour  the  Lord  with  thy  substance,  and  with 
the  first-fruits  (the  best)  of  all  thine  increase  :  so 
shall  thy  barns  be  filled  with  plenty." — Prov.  iii.  9, 10.. 

"  And  the  first  of  all  the  first-fruits  of  all  things, 
&/C.,  ye  shall  give  unto  the  priest,  that  he  may  cause 
the  blessing  to  rest  in  thy  house." — Ezek.  xliv.  30. 

"  Bring  ye  all  the  tithes  into  the  storehouse,  that 
there  may  be  meat  in  my  house,  and  prove  me  now 
herewith,  saith  the  Lord  of  Hosts,  if  I  will  not  open 
the  windows  of  heaven,  and  pour  you  out  a  blessing, 
that  there  shall  not  be  room  enough  to  receive  it." — 
Mai.  iii.  10. 

"  Let  him  (that  is,  he  is  bound  by  his  Christianity) 
that  is  taucrht  in  the  word  communicate  to  him  that 
teacheth  in  all  good  things." — Gal.  vi.  6. 

May  my  gracious  God  who  has  blessed  me  with 
wealth,  may  He  bless  me  with  humility  and  grati- 
tude, and  with  a  perseverance  in  the  most  lovely 
grace  of  charity. 

When  God  left  out  the  tribe  of  Levi  in  the 
division  of  the  land.  He  did  it  for  his  advantage  ; 
for  He  gave  him  a  tenth  instead  of  a  twelfth  part  ; 
and  even  this  under  such  conditions  as  freed  him 
from  bodily  labour. 

Every  one  is  bound  to  help  the  poor,  not  just 
as  he  is  assessed  by  human  laws,  but  according  to 
his  ability,  as  God  has  prospered  him ;  and  if  he 
will  do  no  more  than  he  can  be  compelled  to  by 
law,  he  will  have  but  a  bad  account  to  make. 

Prescriptions  are  therefore  unlawful. 

9*  J. 

6, !L ^6 


o — o 

202  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

ALMS. 

"  Say  not,  God  will  look  upon  the  multitude  of 
my  oblations,  (that  is,  if  we  wilfully  break  his 
laws,)  and  when  I  offer  to  the  Most  High  God,  he 
will  accept  it." — Ecclus.  vii.  9. 

God  has  no  need  of  our  help  to  relieve  the  poor. 
He  commands  us  for  our  own  profit,  to  help  one 
another ;  that  we  help  the  poor  with  our  riches, 
they  us  with  their  prayers.  We  give  nothing  to  the 
poor  but  what  we  have  received  from  God.  How 
well  is  a  man  paid  for  his  alms,  when  they  obtain  for 
him  the  grace  of  God,  not  to  mention  a  reward  in 
temporal  blessings. 

The  administering  of  charity  not  only  supplieth 
the  wants  of  the  poor,  but  is  abundant  also  by  many 
thanksgivings  unto  God,  and  by  their  prayers  for  you.* 
"  But  if  any  provide  not  for  his  own,  and  espe- 
cially for  those  of  his  own  house  (kindred),  he  hath 
denied  the  faith,  and  is  worse  than  an  infidel." — 1 
Tim.  v.  8. 

A  very  terrible  sentence  !  And  will  not  this 
awaken  pastors,  masters,  parents,  now  fast  asleep  in 
a  deplorable  neglect  of  those  who  stand  related  to 
them,  both  as  to  temporals  and  spirituals? 

We  rob  the  poor  when  we  leave  to  others  the 
care  of  maintaining  our  poor  relations,  when  we  our- 
selves are  able  to  do  it ;  and  thereby  deprive  those 
charitable  persons  of  the  means  of  supporting  other 
poor  persons. 

*  2  Corinthians  ix.  12. 
o O 


SATURDAY    MEDITATIONS.  203 

Remember  to  ^ive  to  those  that  are  ashamed  to 
ask  ;  and  do  not  forget  your  poor  relation,  lest  you 
be  worse  than  an  infidel. 

"  This  Judas  said,  not  that  he  cared  for  the  poor, 
but  because  he  was  a  thief,  and  had  the  bag,  and 
bare  (the  money)  which  was  put  therein." — John 
xii.  6. 

Our  Lord  trusts  a  thief  with  the  little  money  that 
he  had  for  his  own,  or  his  disciples'  necessities,  not 
for  the  poor,  because  he  values  it  not  much.  My 
Saviour,  Thou  who  hast  intrusted  me  with  the  reve- 
nues of  Thy  poor,  make  me  a  faithful  steward ;  let 
me  not  be  proud  of  the  trust,  since  Judas  himself 
had  once  the  same  office  ;  but  let  me  dread  being  un- 
faithful, lest  I  draw  upon  me  his  cursed  fate  and  end  ! 

They  who  are  united  in  an  expectation  of  an 
eternal  reward,  ought  to  have  very  little  regard  to 
those  external  advantages  which  distinguish  men. 

We  ought  to  look  upon  it  as  a  certain  truth,  that 
it  is  God  who  sends  to  us  His  friends  in  the  persons 
of  the  poor  and  strangers. 

''  In  all  thy  gifts  show  a  cheerful  countenance, 
and  dedicate  thy  tithes  with  gladness." — Ecclus. 
XXXV.  9. 

Give  unto  the  Most  Hiah  accordinor  as  He  hath 
enriched  thee.  For  the  Lord  thy  God  recompenseth, 
and  will  give  thee  seven  times  as  much. — But  do  not 
think  to  corrupt  (viz.  God)  with  gifts,  nor  trust  to 
unrighteous  sacrifices,  for  the  Lord  is  judge. 

''  He  that  showeth  mercy,  let  him  do  it  with  cheer- 
fulness."— Rom.  xii.  18. 

O O 


Q O 

204  SACllA    PRIVATA. 

The  good  Lord  preserve  me  from  vanity,  and 
from  seeking  applause  for  my  charity. 

N.  B. — To  lend  is  sometimes  better  than  to  give, 
because  it  flatters  not  our  vanity  ;  it  puts  not  the 
receiver  to  the  blush,  and  gives  not  encouragement 
to  idleness  and  sloth. 

Jesus  Christ  has  left  the  poor  in  His  place,  and 
has  in  them  continual  wants  and  necessities  to  be 
supplied. 

There  is  danger  in  letting  our  thoughts  run  too 
much  upon  the  good  we  do,  lest  we  should  at  last 
come  to  fiincy  that  God  is  in  our  debt ;  and  that  He 
should  reward  us  in  this  life. 

The  merits  of  the  poor  are  not  to  be  the  rule  of 
our  charity.  ''  If  thine  enemy  hunger,  feed  him  ; 
if  he  thirst,  give  him  drink."  "  1  was  a  stranger, 
and  ye  took  me  not  in." 

God  Himself  maketh  His  sun  to  shine  upon  the 
evil  and  upon  the  good. 

We  should  always  have  enough  for  the  poor,  if 
we  would  but  moderate  our  vanity,  and  live  accord- 
ing to  the  spirit  of  the  Gospel. 

It  will  one  day  be  found  true,  that  the  measure 
of  the  riches  which  any  man  possessed  should  have 
been  the  measure  of  his  charity. 

"  Brethren  and  help  are  against  the  time  of  trou- 
ble ;  but  alms  delivereth  more  than  them  both." — 
Ecclus.  xl.  24. 

"  Manasses  gave  alms,  and  escaped  the  snares 
of  death  which  they  had  set  for  him." — Tobit  xiv. 
10. 

o '•-'■'       


o— 0 

SATURDAY    MEDITATIONS.  205 

He  who  gives  to  receive  glory  of  men,  is  as  great, 
but  worse  beggar  than  any  he  gives  to. 

Send  thy  blessing  upon  my  labours  and  upon  my 
substance,  and  continue  to  me  a  willing  mind  to 
help  such  as  have  need  according  to  my  ability. 

"  My  son,  blemish  not  thy  good  deeds,  neither 
use  uncomfortable  words  when  thou  givest  any  thing. 
Shall  not  the  dew  assuagre  the  heat  ?  so  is  a  word 
better  than  a  gift.  A  word  is  better  than  a  gift :  but 
both  are  with  a  gracious  man." — Ecclus.  xviii.  15, 
16,  17. 

"  There  is  that  scattereth,  and  yet  increaseth  ; 
and  there  is  that  withholdeth  more  than  is  meet,  but 
it  tendeth  to  poverty." — Prov.  xi.  24. 

Whenever  we  relieve  the  wants  of  the  body,  we 
ought  not  to  forget  the  necessities  of  the  soul : 
good  advice  and  devout  petitions  for  their  eternal 
welfare,  will  then  be  most  proper  and  acceptable  to 
God. 

O  God,  who  knowest  the  necessities  of  all  Thy 
creatures,  give  Thy  poor  the  spiritual  graces  they 
stand  in  need  of 

Lord  Jesus,  conduct  this  poor  blind  person  in  the 
way  of  light  and  peace  everlasting. 

Support  Thy  poor  members,  O  Jesu,  under  all 
their  difficulties,  and  sanctify  their  bodily  wants  to 
the  salvation  of  their  souls. 

May  Thy  poor,  O  Lord,  engage  Thee,  by  a  life 
of  resignation  and  piety,  to  make  them  amends  in 
the  next  world  for  what  they  want  in  this. 

Let  Thy  poor  have  a  particular  share  of  Thy 


0- Q 

206  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

grace  and  mercy,  that  they  may  appear  for  me  at  the 
day  of  judgment. 

Let  these  poor  people  have  Thy  grace,  whatever 
else  Thou  deniest  them. 

May  the  wants  of  Thy  poor  here  help  to  increase 
their  happiness  hereafter. 

Lord,  grant  that  these  may  bear  their  poor  estate 
with  patience  and  resignation,  and  that  we  may  one 
day  meet  in  the  paradise  of  God. 

"  Freely  ye  have  received,  freely  give." — Mat- 
thew X.  8. 

Give  me,  O  my  Lord  and  Benefactor,  an  abhor- 
rence of  making  a  trade  of  Thy  gifts,  of  which  I  am 
only  a  dispenser. 

''  He  that  mocketh  and  he  that  oppresseth  the 
poor  reproacheth  his  Maker." — Prov.  xiv.  3L  xvii.  5. 

As  if  he  did  not  order  what  is  best  for  all  His 
creatures. 

May  this.  Thy  poor  member,  O  Lord,  make  a 
Christian  use  of  this  condition  in  which  Thy  pro- 
vidence hath  placed  him. 

Jesus  Christ  is  continually  humbled  in  His 
members  ;  some  are  poor,  in  prison,  sick,  naked, 
hungry,  &.c.  Let  me,  O  Lord,  see  and  help  Thee 
in  all  these  objects. 

A  man  that  has  faith  will  be  glad  to  discharge 
himself  of  the  burden  (some  part  at  least)  of  tem- 
poral goods,  in  order  to  secure  those  that  are  eter- 
nal :  and  to  be  in  some  sense  the  preserver  of  his 
brethren. 

Charity  treats  the  most  unknown  and  remote  like 

O O 


?■ 


o 


SATURDAY    MEDITATIONS.  207 

brethren,   as  being   children  of  the   same  heavenly 
Father,  and  members  of  the  same  body. 


CONVERSATION. 

"  Let  your  speech  be  always  with  grace,  seasoned 
with  salt,  that  ye  may  know  how  ye  ought  to  answer 
every  man." — Col.  iv.  6. 

One  mild,  prudent,  and  edifying  conversation 
has  often  gained  more  souls  than  many  sermons. 

'*  Wherefore  comfort  yourselves  together,  and 
edify  one  another." — 1  Thess.  v.  Jl. 

These  are  two  express  duties  of  Christian  con- 
versation. 

May  that  good  Spirit,  which  appeared  in  the 
likeness  of  tongues  of  fire,  warm  my  heart,  direct  my 
thoughts,  and  guide  my  tongue,  and  give  a  power  to 
persuade  ;  that  by  my  conversation  and  example,  as 
well  as  by  my  sermons  and  writings,  I  may  promote 
the  kingdom  and  interests  of  my  great  Master.  Amen. 

"  I  will  speak  of  Thy  testimonies  even  before 
kings,  and  will  not  be  ashamed." — Psalm  cxix. 

We,  of  all  men,  should  desire  to  talk,  and  be 
talked  to,  in  our  own  way,  and  of  things  relating  to 
our  own  profession  ;  and  so  we  should  if  our  profes- 
sion were  most  at  our  heart. 

"  Behold,  I  send  you  forth  as  sheep  among 
wolves." — Matthew  x.  16. 

My  Saviour,  give  me  grace  to  oppose  nothing  to 
the  violence  of  men,  but  the  meekness  and  simplicity 
of  that  creature. 

c 6 


o — o 

208  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

"  It  is  not  ye  that  speak,  but  the  Holy  Spirit 
speaketh  in  you." — Matthew  x.  20. 

O  Holy  Spirit,  speak  in  me  on  all  occasions,  that 
I  may  always  speak  as  a  Christian. 

"  It  shall  be  given  you  in  that  same  hour  what  ye 
shall  speak." — Matthew  x.  19. 

Let  no  incredulity,  O  Jesus,  hinder  the  effects  of 
so  positive  a  promise,  that  neither  want  of  talents, 
nor  any  other  defect  or  surprise,  may  hurt  Thy 
cause. 

*'  Remember  the  word  that  I  said  unto  you.  The 
servant  is  not  greater  than  his  Lord.  If  they  have 
persecuted  Me,  they  will  also  persecute  you  ;  if  they 
have  kept  My  saying,  they  will  keep  yours  also." — 
John  XV.  20. 

O  Thou  great  Master  of  humility  and  of  suffer- 
ing, how  unwilling  are  we  to  follow  this  maxim,  and 
imitate  Thy  conduct !  O  let  me  learn  from  Thee 
never  to  murmur,  never  to  complain.  I  can  never 
suffer  any  thing  but  what  Thou  hast  suffered. 

"  Carest  Thou  not  that  we  perish?" — Mark  iv. 
38. 

Lord,  give  me  always  a  great  concern  for  the 
Church,  a  true  compassion  for  its  evils,  and  a  sure 
confidence  in  Thee.  O  Lord  Jesus,  Thou  seest  our 
afflictions,  our  troubles,  and  our  wants.  Haste  Thee 
to  help  us,  O  Lord  God  of  our  salvation. 


d O 


Q O 

SATURDAY    MEDITATIONS.  209 


PRAYER  BEFORE  STUDY. 

O  God,  the  fountain  of  all  wisdom,  in  a  deep 
sense  of  my  own  ignorance,  and  of  that  great  charge 
which  lies  upon  me,  I  am  constrained  to  come  often 
before  Thee,  from  whom  I  have  learned  whatever  I 
know,  to  ask  that  help  without  which  I  shall  disquiet 
myself  in  vain ;  most  humbly  beseeching  Thee  to 
guide  me  with  Thine  eye ;  to  enlighten  my  mind, 
that  I  may  see  myself,  and  teach  others  the  wonders 
of  Thy  law;  that  I  may  learn  from  Thee  what  I 
ought  to  think  and  speak  concerning  Thee.  Direct 
and  bless  all  the  labours  of  my  mind,  give  me  a  dis- 
cerning spirit,  a  sound  judgment,  and  an  honest  and 
religious  heart.  And  grant  that,  in  all  my  studies, 
my  first  aim  may  be  to  set  forth  Thy  glory,  and  to 
set  forward  the  salvation  of  mankind ;  that  I  may 
give  a  comfortable  account  of  my  time  at  the  great 
day,  when  all  our  labours  shall  be  tried. 

And  if  Thou  art  pleased  that  by  my  ministry  sin- 
ners shall  be  converted,  and  Thy  kingdom  enlarged, 
give  me  the  grace  of  humility,  that  I  may  never 
ascribe  the  success  to  myself,  but  to  Thy  Holy 
Spirit,  which  enables  me  to  will  and  to  do  according 
to  Thy  good  pleasure.  Grant  this,  O  Father  of  all 
light  and  truth,  for  the  sake  of  Jesus  Christ.     Amen. 


o 

210  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

SUFFERINGS. 

"  Yea,  a  sword  shall  pierce  through  thy  own  soul 
also." — Luke  ii.  35. 

Thus  God  treated  Mary,  and  thus  He  treats 
those  whom  He  loves ;  He  mingles  bitters  with  their 
sweets. 

He  who  is  called  to  the  ministry  of  the  word,  is 
called  to  suffer  the  contradiction  of  the  world,  and, 
if  occasion  be,  to  seal  the  truth  with  his  blood. 

This  should  always  be  our  support  and  comfort, 
that  the  tongues,  the  ill-will,  the  evil  designs  of  men, 
are  always  subject  to  the  power  of  God  ;  let  us  there- 
fore be  intent  upon  our  duty,  and  leave  the  rest  to 
God,  who  continually  watches  over  His  faithful  ser- 
vants. "  Even  the  hairs  of  your  head  are  all  num- 
bered." 

My  God  !  settle  in  my  heart  a  firm  belief  in  Thy 
providence,  and  dependence  upon  Thy  will  and  de- 
signs, that  I  may  consider  nothing  but  my  duty,  and 
fear  no  evil ;  but  only  lest  I  should  not  faithfully  dis- 
charge my  duty  in  all  respects. 

"  He  preached  boldly  in  the  name  of  the  Lord 
Jesus :  but  they  went  about  to  kill  him." — Acts 
ix.  29. 

When  a  man  is  treated  as  Jesus  Christ  was  for 
preaching,  it  is  a  good  sign  that  he  preaches  by  His 
Spirit,  and  that  this  is  the  beginning  of  his  reward  ; 
and  indeed  opposition,  and  evil  treatment  are  less  to 
be  feared  by  a  minister  of  Christ,  than  applause  and 

O O 


o o 

SATURDAY    MEDITATIONS.  211 

condemnation.  "  Woe  unto  you  when  all  men  shall 
speak  well  of  you." 

"  We  are  troubled  on  every  side,  yet  not  distress- 
ed ;  we  are  perplexed,  but  not  in  despair  ;  persecuted, 
but  not  forsaken  ;  cast  down,  but  not  destroyed." — 2 
Cor.  iv.  8,  9. 

Observe  here  an  apostolical  disposition  in  the 
midst  of  persecution  : — Liberty  of  spirit  and  joy  of 
heart ;  an  invincible  courage ;  a  lively  belief  of  the 
care  of  God ;  a  full  trust  in  His  assistance  in  the 
lowest  abyss  of  trouble  ;  casting  the  eyes  of  faith 
upon  the  sufferings  of  the  Lord  Jesus;  counting  him- 
self happy  in  fulfilling  them  in  His  Mystical  Body. 

"  The  things  which  happened  unto  me,  have  fallen 
out  rather  unto  the  furtherance  of  the  Gospel." — Phil. 
i.  12. 

He  who  loses  courage  under  oppositions,  is  even 
yet  a  stranger  to  the  ways  of  the  Gospel.  God  can 
and  does  make  His  greatest  enemies  contribute  to 
his  work  and  glory.  Let  us  leave  God  to  act  and 
follow  his  guidance. 

"  Notwithstandino;  the  Lord  stood  with  me,  and 
strengthened  me." — 2  Tim.  iv.  17. 

The  more  a  minister  of  Christ  is  forsaken  by 
men,  the  more  conformable  he  is  to  Christ,  and  the 
greater  consolation  he  may  expect  from  God. 

"  Consider  Him  that  endured  such  contradiction 
of  sinners  against  Himself,  lest  ye  be  wearied  and 
faint  in  your  minds." — Hebrews  xii.  3. 

If  the  world,  which  rose  up  against  Christ,  suffer 
us  to  be  quiet,  we  should  have  reason  to  fear  that  we   I 

o 6 


o —•  o 

212  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

do  not  follow  His  steps,  and  that  the  world  is  pleased 
with  us. 

"  Whom  the  Lord  loveth  He  chasteneth,  and 
scourgeth  every  son  whom  he  receiveth." — Hebrews 
xii.  6. 

If  nature  were  innocent,  a  Father  so  just  and  so 
good  would  not  impose  a  condition  so  hard  upon  His 
children,  were  it  not  necessary  to  our  salvation.  We 
are  treated  as  bastards  if  we  are  not  chastened,  but 
left  to  our  own  libertinism ;  too  sure  a  sign  of  repro- 
bation. 

Grant,  O  Lord,  that  I  may  submit  to,  and  even  be 
pleased  with,  those  temporal  evils  which  lead  to  eter- 
nal happiness. 

"  This  is  thankworthy,  if  a  man  for  conscience 
towards  God  endure  grief,  suffering  wrongfully." — 
1  Peter  ii.  19. 

He  who  can  be  content  to  have  God  for  a  witness 
of  his  patience  and  sufferings,  has  found  the  secret 
to  make  God  his  friend. 

We  complain  of  unjust  sufferings,  and  they  are 
the  things  which  we  ought  most  to  value. 

A  Christian,  whose  whole  care  is  to  avoid  suffer- 
ings, has  forgot  his  pattern  ;  and  that  we  are  Chris- 
tians in  order  to  be  crucified  with  Christ. 

We  see  in  Jesus  Christ  innocence  and  holiness 
itself  suffering;   and  yet  we  complain  of  hardships. 

The  meekness  of  Christ  when  in  the  hands  of 
His  enemies,  and  when  He  had  power  to  have  deliv- 
ered Himself,  is  what  we  are  always  to  remember. 

**  If  ye  suffer  for  righteousness'  sake,  happy  are 

6 


Q — — — O 

SATURDAY    MEDITATIONS.  213 

ye :  and  be  not  afraid  of  their  terror." — 1  Peter  iii. 
14. 

It  is  plain  we  do  not  know  the  happiness  of  suf- 
fering, when  we  speak  of  it  with  abhorrence,  and 
shun  it  with  all  our  might. 

Nothing  but  Thy  love,  O  Lord,  can  suppress  in 
our  hearts  the  fear  of  men. 

"  If  ye  be  reproached  for  the  name  of  Christ, 
happy  are  ye  ;  for  the  Spirit  of  glory  and  of  God 
resteth  upon  you." — 1  Peter  iv,  14. 

No  worldly  glory  equals  this ;  nothing  causes 
His  spirit  to  rest  upon  us  more  perseveringly  ;  God 
will  not  account  of  sufferings  brought  upon  a  man's 
self  by  his  own  fault ;  and  yet  Christian  grace  can 
sanctify  even  such  crimes,  when  a  criminal  suffers 
in  the  spirit  of  repentance,  and  submission  to  the 
will  of  God. 

To  be  purified  by  afflictions  is  a  great  mercy  ;  to 
be  abandoned  to  prosperity  till  death,  is  an  in- 
stance of  God's  anger. 

"  Wherefore  let  them  that  suffer  according  to  the 
will  of  God,  commit  the  keeping  of  their  souls  to 
Him  in  well-doing,  as  unto  a  faithful  Creator." — 1 
Peter  iv.  19. 

"  Marvel  not,  my  brethren,  if  the  world  hate  you." 
— 1  John  iii.  13. 

Let  us  rather  fear  that  we  do  not  belong  to  God, 
if  the  world  spare  us. 

"  As  ye  are  partakers  of  the  sufferings,  so  shall 
ye  be  also  of  the  consolations." — 2  Cor.  i.  7. 

O  Lord,  remove  from  me  all  inward  disquiet,  and 

O ■ O 


o o 

214  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

grant  that,  with  an  entire  submission  to  Thy  will,  I 
may  ever  preserve  a  peace  of  mind,  and  leave  my 
deliverance  to  Thy  choice. 

The  more  the  world  deprives  us  of  its  protection 
for  our  adherence  to  God,  the  more  He  espouseth  our 
interest,  and  declares  on  our  side. 

It  is  the  part  of  the  minister  of  Christ  to  labour 
without  ceasing, — to  suffer  without  resentment, — and 
to  leave  his  cause  in  the  hands  of  God,  with  full  trust 
in  Him. 


A  THANKSGIVING  FOR  ST.  PETER'S  DAY, 

WHEN    MY    FATHER   AND    TWO    OF    MY    BROTHERS    MOST    WONDERFULLY 
ESCAPED    BEING    DROWNED. 

O  Eternal  and  most  merciful  God ;  Who  hast 
made  us  happy  in  the  knowledge  of  Thy  providence, 
which  governs  and  preserves  all  things  both  in  hea- 
ven and  earth  ;  by  whose  goodness  my  father  and  two 
of  my  brothers  were,  as  on  this  day,  delivered  from 
sudden  and  untimely  deaths;  accept  of  my  hearty 
thanks  and  praise  for  this  great  mercy  vouchsafed  to 
the  whole  family ;  and  grant  that  none  of  us  may, 
while  we  live,  forget  these  wonderful  expressions  of 
Thy  loving-kindness  to  us,  the  most  undeserving  of 
all  Thy  people. 

We  had  sinned  many  ways  against  Thee,  O  Lord, 
and  this  was  a  loud,  a  distinct,  and  merciful  call  of 
Thine,  to  every  one  of  us,  to  repentance,  which  I 

o_ O 


o- o 

SATURDAY    MEDITATIONS.  215 

most  humbly  beseech  Thee  give  us  grace  to  hear,  to 
remember,  and  obey. 

The  greatest  happiness,  O  merciful  Father,  which 
I  can  desire,  either  for  myself  or  those  who  were 
sharers  in  this  o-reat  deliverance,  is  what  I  now  hum- 
bly  beg  for  ;  that  we  may  all  of  us  gratefully  acknow- 
ledge Thy  great  love  to  us ;  meditate  on  Thy  tender 
mercies  ;  magnify  Thy  great  and  good  providence  ; 
and  by  these  mighty  favours,  be  reduced  to  an  obe- 
dience becoming  our  redemption. 

Pass  by  and  pardon  the  ingratitude  we  have  any 
of  us  been  guilty  of;  and  give  us  grace  to  consider, 
that,  by  the  merciful  goodness  of  God,  we  are  deliv- 
ered from  a  world  of  dangers,  which  would  otherwise 
overwhelm  us. 

And  according  to  thy  wonted  mercies,  preserve 
us,  for  the  time  to  come,  to  serve  Thee.  May  the 
same  watchful  providence,  which  has  aforetime  de- 
fended us  from  such  imminent  dangers,  guard  us  the 
remainder  of  our  days,  through  all  the  changes  and 
chances  of  this  mortal  life.  This  I  most  humbly  be- 
seech Thee  to  grant,  for  Thy  own  goodness'  sake,  and 
for  the  merits  of  our  Saviour  Christ  Jesus.     Amen. 

Praise  the  Lord,  O  my  soul,  and  all  that  is  within 
me  praise  His  holy  name. 

Praise  the  Lord,  O  my  soul,  and  forget  not  all 
His  benefits.  Who  saved  thy  life  from  destruction. 

Lord,  what  is  man,  that  Thou  art  mindful  of  him  ; 
or  the  sons  of  men,  that  Thou  so  recrardest  them  ? 

But  what  is  my  father's  house,  that  Thou  should- 
est  have  such  respect  to  so  poor,  so  sinful  a  cottage  ? 
0 


Q- 


-O 


216 


SACRA    PRIVATA. 


I  am  oppressed  with  the  load  of  mercies  which 
we  have  received  from  Thee. 


*'  As  every  man  has  received  the  gift,  even  so 
minister  the  same  one  to  another,  as  stewards  of  the 
manifold  grace  of  God." — 1  Peter  iv.  10. 

We  have  received  them  freely,  not  for  ourselves, 
but  for  others ;  no  man  is  excused ;  as  stewards  we 
are  accountable.  Every  man  should  be  content  with 
his  own  talents. 


o 


■o 


SUlfMI  MEDITATIONS.* 

PRAYERS,  THANKSGIVINGS,  &c. 


o- 


A    DAILY    FORM    OF    THANKSGIVING. 

O  Almighty  God  and  most  merciful  Father, 
Who,  day  after  day,  dost  minister  to  sinful  man  infi- 
nite occasions  of  praising  Thee,  accept  of  my  un- 
feigned thanks  for  all  the  blessings  I  have,  and  every 
day  receive,  from  Thy  good  providence. 

That  of  Thine  own  mere  goodness,  and  without 
any  merit  of  mine,  or  of  my  forefathers,  Thou  hast 
given  me  a  being  from  honest  and  religious  parents, 
and  in  such  a  part  of  the  world  where  the  Christian 
religion  is  purely  taught,  and  Thy  sacraments  duly 
administered. 

That  Thou  didst  endue  me  with  reason  and  per- 
fect senses ;  and  to  make  these  more  comfortable  to 
me,  didst  give  me  a  sound  and  healthful  body. 

*  These  Meditations,  and  those  that  follow,  are  accommodated  to  general 
use. 

10 


-o 


o -o 

218  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

That  Thou  didst  preside  over  my  education,  and 
gavest  me  an  early  knowledge  of  Thee,  my  Creator 
and  Redeemer. 

That  Thou  hast  preserved  me  ever  since  my  birth, 
and  vouchsafed  me  health  and  liberty,  and  a  compe- 
tency of  merns  to  support  me. 

That  TLou  hast  redeemed  me  by  Thy  Son,  and 
given  me  a  share  in  His  merits;  sanctified  me  by 
Thy  Holy  Spirit ;  and  heaped  many  unexpected 
favours  upon  me. 

That  Thou  hast  given  me  honest  friends  to  ad- 
monish, to  counsel,  to  encourage,  to  support  me,  by 
their  interest  and  advice. 

That  Thou  hast  been  my  refuge  in  tribulation, 
and  my  defence  in  all  adversities,  delivering  me  from 
dangers,  infamy,  and  troubles.  For  all  known  or  un- 
observed deliverances,  and  for  the  guard  Thy  Holy 
Angels  keep  over  me,  I  praise  Thy  good  providence. 

When  I  went  astray.  Thou  didst  reduce  me ; 
when  I  was  sad,  Thou  didst  comfort  me ;  when  I 
offended  Thee,  Thou  didst  forbear  and  gently  correct 
me,  and  didst  long  expect  my  repentance  ;  and  when, 
for  the  grievousness  of  my  sins,  I  was  ready  to  despair, 
Thou  didst  keep  me  from  utter  ruin  ;  Thou  hast  de- 
livered me  from  the  snares  and  assaults  of  the  devil ; 
Thou  hast  not  only  preserved  my  soul,  but  my  body, 
from  destruction,  when  sickness  and  infirmities  took 
hold  of  me. 

O  Lord  and  Father,  I  cannot  render  due  thanks 
and  praise  for  all  these  mercies  bestowed  upon  me : 
such  as  I  have,  I  give  Thee  ;  and  humbly  beseech 

O O 


o — 

SUNDAY    MEDITATIONS.  219 

Thee  to  accept  of  this  my  daily  sacrifice  of  thanks- 
giving. 

Pardon,  O  God,  all  my  former  ingratitude  ;  and 
that  I  have  passed  so  many  days  without  observing, 
without  admiring,  without  acknowledging  and  con- 
fessing. Thy  wonderful  goodness  to  the  most  unwor- 
thy of  Thy  servants. 

For  (now  I  soberly  consider  my  dependence  upon 
Thee)  as  there  is  no  hour  of  my  life  that  I  do  not 
enjoy  Thy  favours,  and  taste  of  Thy  goodness,  so  (if 
my  frailty  would  permit)  I  would  spend  no  part  of 
my  life  without  remembering  Thee. 

Praise  the  Lord,  then,  O  my  soul,  and  all  that  is 
within  me  praise  His  holy  name. 

Glory  be  to  Thee,  O  Lord,  my  Creator.  Glory 
be  to  Thee,  O  Jesus  my  Redeemer.  Glory  be  to  the 
Holy  Ghost,  my  Sanctifier,  my  Guide  and  Comforter. 

All  love,  all  glory,  be  to  the  high  and  undivided 
Trinity,  Whose  works  are  inseparable,  and  Whose 
dominion  endureth  world  without  end.     Amen. 

When  I  seriously  consider,  great  God,  my  de- 
pendence upon  Thy  providence,  and  that  the  favours 
and  mercies  I  have  received  are  infinitely  more  in 
number  than  the  acknowledgments  I  have  made,  I 
am  justly  ashamed  of  my  ingratitude,  and  afraid  lest 
my  unthankfulness  should  provoke  Thee  to  hinder 
the  current  of  Thy  blessings  from  descending  upon  me. 

Forgive  me,  O  merciful  Father,  my  past  negli- 
gences, and  give  me  grace  for  the  time  to  come  to 
observe  and  to  value  Thy  kindness,  as  becomes  one 
who  has  received  so  much  more  than  he  deserves. 

o 6 


o 

220  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

Preserve  in  my  soul,  O  God,  such  a  constant  and 
clear  sense  of  my  obligations  to  Thee,  that  upon  the 
receipt  of  every  favour,  I  may  immediately  turn  my 
eyes  to  Him  from  whom  cometh  my  salvation.  That 
Thy  manifold  blessings  may  fix  such  lasting  impres- 
sions upon  my  soul,  that  I  may  always  praise  Thee 
faithfully  here  on  earth,  until  it  shall  please  Thee,  of 
Thy  unbounded  mercy,  to  call  me  nearer  the  place 
of  Thy  heavenly  habitation,  to  praise  my  Lord  and 
Deliverer  to  all  eternity.     Amen. 


PROVIDENCE. 

God  has  more  ways  of  providing  for  us,  of  help- 
ing us,  than  we  can  possibly  imagine  ;  it  is  infidelity 
to  desire  to  confine  Him  to  our  ways  and  methods. 

"  Lord,  save  us,  we  perish." — Matthew  viii.  25. 

Nothing  can  better  express  our  own  inability, 
and  our  whole  dependence  upon  God.  Two  sure 
conditions  of  obtaining  help. 

Since  Thy  mercy,  O  God,  is  ever  ready  to  help 
all  that  call  upon  Thee  in  time  of  distress,  let  Thy 
goodness  answer  my  wants. 

Keep  me  under  the  protection  of  Thy  good  pro- 
vidence, and  make  me  to  have  a  perpetual  fear  and 
love  of  Thy  holy  Name,  through  Jesus  Christ.* 

The  more  destitute  we  are  of  human  aid,  the  more 
ought  we  to  trust  to  that  providence  which  God  is 
pleased  to  exert  in  extreme  necessity. 

*  Second  Sunday  after  Trinity. 


—  -Q 

SUNDAY  MEDITATIONS.  221 

O  God,  give  me  grace  never  to  condemn  Thy 
providence  ;  let  me  adore  the  wisdom  of  Thy  con- 
duct, the  holiness  of  Thy  ways,  and  the  power  of 
Thy  grace. 

How  many  sins  should  we  commit,  if  God  did  not 
vouchsafe  to  oppose  our  corrupt  will !  Blessed  be  His 
holy  Name,  for  not  leaving  me  to  my  own  choices. 

"  So  teach  us  to  number  our  days,  that  we  may 
apply  our  hearts  unto  wisdom." — Psalm  xc.  12. 


BIRTH-DAY. 

Blessed  be  God  for  my  creation  and  birth ;  for 
giving  me  a  being  from  honest  parents,  fearing  God, 
and  in  a  Christian  and  Protestant  country  ;  for  giv- 
ing me  perfect  members  and  senses,  a  sound  reason, 
and  an  healthful  constitution ;  for  the  means  of 
grace,  the  assistances  of  the  Holy  Spirit,  and  for  the 
hopes  of  glory ;  for  my  good  education ;  for  all  the 
known  or  unobserved  favours,  providences,  and  deliv- 
erances, by  which  my  life  has  hitherto  been  preserved  ; 
most  humbly  beseeching  Thee,  my  God  and  Father, 
to  pardon  my  neglect  or  abuse  of  any  of  Thy  favours, 
and  that  I  have  so  very  much  forgotten  Thee,  in 
whom  I  live,  and  move,  and  have  my  being. 

Good  Lord,  forgive  me  the  great  waste  of  my 
precious  time  ;  the  many  days  and  years  of  health, 
and  the  many  opportunities  of  doing  good,  which  I 
have  lost ;   and  give  me  grace,  that  for  the  time  to 

O O 


o— o 

222  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

come  I  may  be  truly  wise,  that  I  may  consider  my 
latter  end,  and  work  out  my  salvation  with  fear  and 
trembling,  ever  remembering  ''  that  the  night  cometh 
when  no  man  can  work  ;"  and  that  the  day  of  my 
death  may  be  better  to  me  than  the  day  of  my  birth. 
O  gracious  God,  grant  that  before  Thou  takest 
from  me  that  breath  which  Thou  gavest  me,  I  may 
truly  repent  of  the  errors  of  my  life  past ;  that  my 
sins  may  be  forgiven,  and  my  pardon  sealed  in 
Heaven  ;  so  that  I  may  have  a  place  of  rest  in  para- 
dise with  Thy  faithful  servants,  till  the  general  resur- 
rection ;  when  the  good  Lord  vouchsafe  me  a  better 
and  an  everlasting  life,  through  Jesus  Christ.    Amen. 


NEW-YEAR'S   DAY. 

Blessed  be  God,  who  has  brought  me  safe  to  the 
beginning  of  another  year. 

Blessed  be  God,  that  I  am  of  the  number  of  those 
who  have  time  and  space  for  repentance  yet  given 
them. 

My  God,  make  me  truly  sensible  of  this  mercy, 
and  give  me  grace  to  consider  often  how  short  and 
how  uncertain  my  time  is  :  that  there  is  one  year 
more  of  a  short  life  passed  over  my  head  ;  and  that  I 
am  so  much  nearer  eternity  ;  that  I  may  in  good 
earnest  think  of  another  life,  and  be  so  prepared  for 
it,  as  that  death  may  not  overtake  me  unawares. 

Lord,  pardon  all  my  misspent  time,  and  make  me 


Q- 


SUNDAY    MEDITATIONS.  223 

more  dilio-ent  and  careful  to  redeem  it  for  the  time 
to  come,  that  when  I  come  to  the  end  of  my  days, 
I  may  look  back  with  comfort  on  the  days  that  are 
past. 

Grant  that  I  may  begin  this  new  year  with  new 
resolutions  of  serving  Thee  more  faithfully  ;  and  if, 
through  infirmity  or  negligence,  I  forget  these  good 
purposes,  the  good  Lord  awaken  in  me  a  sense  of 
my  danger. 

My  heart  is  in  Thy  hands,  O  God,  as  well  as  my 
time  ;  O  make  me  wise  unto  salvation  ;  that  I  may 
consider  in  this  my  day  the  things  that  belong  unto 
my  peace  :  and  that  I  may  pass  this,  and  all  the 
years  I  have  yet  to  live,  in  a  comfortable  hope  of  a 
blessed  eternity,  for  the  Lord  Jesus'  sake.     Amen. 


LORD'S    DAY. 

"  When  will  the  Sabbath  be  gone,  that  we  may 
sell  wheat?" — Amos  viii.  5. 

Deliver  us,  gracious  God,  from  this  sin  of  covet- 
ousness, — from  being  weary  of  Thy  Sabbaths,  which 
are  ordained  to  preserve  in  our  hearts  the  knowledge 
of  Thee,  and  of  Thy  Son  Jesus  Christ. 

O  that  we  may  desire,  and  rejoice  in  the  return  of 
this  day,  and  serve  Thee  faithfully  on  it ;  and  that  we 
may  enjoy  an  everlasting  Sabbath  with  Thy  saints, 
for  Jesus  Christ  His  sake.     Amen. 

O  that  I  may  be  glad  when  they  say  unto  me. 
Come,  let  us  go  to  the  house  of  God  ! 


O 


Q —— O 

224  SACRA    PRIVATA. 


PRAYER    FOR    ALL    MANKIND. 

"  I  exhort,  that  first  of  all,  supplications,  prayers, 
intercessions,  and  givinor  of  thanks,  be  made  for  all 
men." — 1  Timothy  ii.  1. 

O  God,  almighty  and  merciful,  let  Thy  fatherly 
kindness  be  upon  all  that  Thou  hast  made. 

Have  mercy  upon  all  Jews,  Turks,  Infidels,  and 
Heretics  ;  and  grant  that  none  may  deprive  them- 
selves of  that  happiness  which  Jesus  Christ  has  pur- 
chased by  His  death. 

Bless  the  pious  endeavours  of  all  those  that  strive 
to  propagate  the  gospel  of  Christ ;  and  may  its  saving 
truths  be  received  in  all  the  world. 

Preserve  Thy  Church  in  the  midst  of  the  dangers 
that  surround  it ;  purge  it  from  all  corruptions,  and 
heal  its  divisions,  that  all  Christian  people  may  unite 
and  love  as  becomes  the  disciples  of  Christ. 

Grant  that  all  bishops  and  pastors  may  be  careful 
to  observe  the  sacred  rights  committed  to  their 
trust : — 

That  godly  discipline  may  be  restored  and  coun- 
tenanced : — 

That  Christians  may  not  content  themselves  with 
bare  shadows  of  religion  and  piety  ;  but  endeavour 
after  that  holiness  without  which  no  man  can  see  the 
Lord  : — 

That  such  as  are  in  authority  may  govern  with 
truth  and  justice  ;  and  that  those  whose  duty  it  is  to 
obey,  may  do  it  for  conscience'  sake. 

O 


— ■ o 

SUNDAY    MEDITATIONS.  225 

Let  all  that  sincerely  seek  the  truth,  be  led  into 
it  by  Thy  Holy  Spirit ;  and  to  all  such  as  are  desti- 
tute of  necessary  instruction,  vouchsafe  a  greater 
measure  of  Thy  grace. 

Support  and  comfort  all  that  labour  under  trials 
and  afflictions,  all  that  suffer  wrongfully;  and  by 
Thy  mighty  grace  succour  all  those  that  are  tempted. 

Give  unto  all  sinners  a  true  sense  of  their  unhappy 
state,  and  grace  and  strength  to  break  their  bonds. 

Visit,  with  Thy  fatherly  comforts,  all  such  as  are 
now  in  their  last  sickness,  that  they  may  omit  nothing 
that  is  necessary  to  make  their  peace  with  Thee. 

Be  gracious  to  all  those  countries  that  are  made 
desolate  by  the  sword,  famine,  pestilence,  or  per- 
secution. 

And  sanctify  the  miseries  of  this  life,  to  the  ever- 
lasting benefit  of  all  that  suifer.  Preserve  this  land 
from  the  miseries  of  war ;  this  Church  from  perse- 
cution, and  from  all  wild  and  dangerous  errors  ;  and 
this  people  from  forgetting  Thee,  their  Lord  and 
Benefactor. 

Avert  the  judgments  which  we  have  justly  de- 
served ;  and  mercifully  prevent  the  ruin  that  threatens 
us  ;  and  grant  that  we  may  be  ever  prepared  for  what 
Thy  providence  shall  bring  forth. 

Bless  all  persons  and  places  to  which  Thy  provi- 
dence has  made  me  a  debtor  ;  all  who  have  been 
instrumental  to  my  good,  by  their  assistance,  advice, 
example,  or  writings ;  and  make  me  in  my  turn  use- 
ful to  others. 

Let  none  of  those  who  cannot  pray  for  them- 

9* 

Q- — O 


226  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

selves,  and  desire  my  prayers,  want  Thy  mercy  ;  but 
defend,  and  comfort,  and  conduct  them  through  this 
dangerous  world,  that  we  may  meet  in  paradise,  to 
praise  our  God  for  ever  and  ever.     Amen. 

Enlighten  the  minds,  and  pardon  the  sin,  of  all 
that  err  through  simplicity. 

Let  the  wickedness  of  the  wicked  come  to  an 
end,  but  guide  Thou  the  just. 

Relieve  and  cf)mfort  all  that  are  troubled  in  mind 
or  conscience  ;  all  that  are  in  danger  of  falling  into 
despair  ;  all  that  are  in  any  dangerous  error;  all  that 
are  in  prison,  in  slavery,  or  under  persecution  for  a 
righteous  cause  ;  all  that  are  in  any  distress  what- 
ever, that  all  may  improve  under  their  sufferings. 

Have  mercy  upon  and  reclaim  all  that  are  en- 
gaged in  sinful  courses,  in  youthful  lusts,  in  unchris- 
tian quarrels,  and  in  unrighteous  lawsuits. 

Direct  all  that  are  in  doubt,  all  that  seek  the 
truth. 

O  God,  the  Creator  and  Redeemer  of  all,  have 
mercy  upon  all  whom  Thou  hast  made  and  redeemed. 
Amen. 


O- O 


Ots- 


MONDAY  MEDITATIONS. 


RESIGNATION. 


-o 


"  Nevertheless,  not  My  will,  but  Thine  be 
done." — Luke  xxii.  42. 

0  God,  who  takest  delight  in  helping  the  afflicted, 
help  a  soul  too  often  distressed  with  an  inward  rebel- 
lion against  Thy  just  appointments. 

Who  am  I,  that  I  should  make  exceptions  against 
the  will  of  God,  infinitely  great,  and  wise,  and  good? 

1  know  not  the  things  that  are  for  my  own  good. 
My  most  earnest  desires,  if  granted,  may  prove 

my  ruin. 

The  things  I  complain  of,  and  fear,  may  be  the 
effects  of  the  greatest  mercy. 

The  disappointments  I  meet  with  may  be  abso- 
lutely necessary  for  my  eternal  welfare. 

I  do  therefore  protest  against  the  sin  and  mad- 
ness of  desiring  to  have  my  will  done,  and  not  the 
will  of  God. 

*  Written  while  the    author  was  prisoner  in  Castle-Ryshen,  August 
5,  1722. 


O 


O- 


228  SACRA    PRIVATA. 


Grant,  gracious  Father,  that  I  may  never  dispute 
the  reasonableness  of  Thy  will,  but  ever  close  vi^ith 
it,  as  the  best  that  can  happen. 

Prepare  me  alvi^ays  for  what  Thy  providence  shall 
brincr  forth. 

Let  me  never  murmur,  be  dejected,  or  impatient, 
under  any  of  the  troubles  of  this  life  ;  but  ever  find 
rest  and  comfort  in  this  ;  this  is  the  will  of  my  Father^ 
and  of  my  God :  grant  this  for  Jesus  Christ's  sake. 
Amen. 

To  the  glory  of  God,  and  justification  of  His  infi- 
nite goodness,  I  do  here  acknowledge,  that  in  all  the 
dispensations  of  Providence  which  have  befallen  me, 
to  this  day,  however  uneasy  to  flesh  and  blood,  I  have 
notwithstanding  experienced  the  kindness  of  a  father 
for  his  child  ;  and  am  convinced  that  it  would  have 
been  much  worse  for  me  had  I  had  my  own  choices. 

O  God,  grant  that  for  the  time  to  come  I  may 
yield  a  cheerful  obedience  to  all  Thy  appointments. 
Amen. 

Corrupt  nature  cannot  comprehend  that  afflictions 
are  the  effects  of  the  Divine  love.  It  must  be  Thy 
grace,  O  lover  of  souls,  which  must  work  in  me  this 
conviction,  which  I  beseech  Thee  to  vouchsafe  me. 

Never  set  a  greater  value  upon  this  world  than  it 
deserves. 

If  a  man  is  not  eager  or  positive  in  his  desires,  he 
will  more  readily  embrace  the  appointments  of  provi- 
dence. 

If  we  place  our  hopes,  or  our  dependence,  upon 
the  power,  the  wisdom,  the  counsel,  or  the  interest 

O 6 


o 

MONDAY    MEDITATIONS.  229 

we  have  in  man,  and  not  in  God  only,  we  shall  surely 
be  disappointed. 

"  Though  He  slay  me,  yet  will  I  trust  in  Him." — 
Job  xiii.  15. 

O  my  crucified  King  and  Saviour,  let  my  sub- 
mission to  whatever  afflictions  shall  befall  me,  for 
Thy  sake,  or  by  Thy  appointment,  be  to  me  a  pledge 
and  an  assurance  of  my  fidelity  to  Thee,  and  con- 
formity to  Thy  sufferings. 

It  is  a  favour  to  be  punished  and  to  suffer  in  this 
life,  when  a  man  makes  a  good  use  of  his  sufferings. 
But  to  suffer  by  constraint,  is  to  suffer  without  com- 
fort and  without  benefit. 

Our  union  and  conformity  with  the  will  of  God, 
ought  to  be  instead  of  all  consolation. 

Grant,  O  God,  that  I  may  always  accept  of  the 
punishment  of  my  sins  with  resignation  to  Thy  good 
pleasure. 

Remember  me,  O  Lord,  in  the  day  of  trouble  ; 
keep  me  from  all  excess  of  fear,  concern,  and  sadness. 

Grant  me  an  humble  and  a  resigned  heart,  that 
with  perfect  content  I  may  ever  acquiesce  in  all  the 
methods  of  Thy  grace,  that  I  may  never  frustrate 
the  designs  of  Thy  mercy,  by  unreasonable  fears,  by 
sloth,  or  self-love.     Amen. 

Think  often  of  God,  and  of  His  attributes.  His 
mercy,  compassion,  fidelity,  fatherly  care,  goodness, 
protection.  Dwell  on  these  thoughts  till  they  pro- 
duce such  a  well-grounded  confidence  as  will  sup- 
port us  under  all  difficulties,  and  assure  us  that  He 
cannot  possibly  forsake  those  that  depend  on  Him. 

O- O 


9 o 

230  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

When  God  deprives  us  of  any  thing  that  is  most 
dear  to  us, — health,  ease,  conveniences  of  life,  friends, 
wife,  children,  &c.,  we  should  immediately  say.  This 
is  God's  will  ;  I  am  by  Him  commanded  to  part  with 
so  much  ;  let  me  not  therefore  murmur  or  be  dejected, 
for  then  it  would  appear  that  I  did  love  that  thing 
more  than  God's  will. 

When  God  thus  visits  us,  let  us  immediately  look 
inwards,  and,  lest  our  sins  should  be  the  occasion, 
let  us  take  care  that  we  seriously  repent,  and  endeav- 
our to  make  our  peace  with  God,  and  then  He  will 
either  deliver  or  support  us,  and  will  convince  us 
that  we  suffer  in  justice  for  our  faults ;  or  for  our 
trial,  and  to  humble  us ;  or  for  God's  glory,  and  to 
sanctify  us. 

"  Be  clothed  with  humility  ;  for  God  resisteth 
the  proud,  and  giveth  grace  to  the  humble." — 1 
Peter  v.  5. 

Give  me  grace,  O  God,  to  study,  to  love,  to  adore, 
and  to  imitate  that  humility  which  Thy  blessed  Son 
hath  taught  us  both  by  His  word  and  by  His  most 
holy  example. 


BUSINESS. 

"  Understanding  what  the  will  of  the  Lord  is." — 
Ephesians  v.  17. 

To  engage  in  any  business  of  importance  without 
knowing  this,  and  taking  counsel  of  God,  may  cost 
us  dear. 

O — — 


Q- 


0 


MONDAY    MEDITATIONS. 


231 


"  Woe  to  them  that  take  counsel,  but  not  of  Me, 
saith  the  Lord." — Isaiah  xxx.  1. 

But  then,  let  a  man  take  heed  that  when  he  goes 
to  inquire  of  the  Lord,  he  does  not  set  up  idols  in  his 
own  heart,  lest  God  answer  him  according  to  his 
idols. 

We  are  to  pray  for  the  direction  of  God's  Spirit 
upon  all  great  occasions,  especially  we  are  humbly  to 
depend  on  His  direction,  and  cheerfully  to  expect  it, 
which  He  will  manifest,  either  by  some  plain  event 
of  His  providence,  or  by  suggesting  such  reasons  as 
ought  to  determine  the  will  to  a  wise  choice. 

But  to  follow  the  inclinations  of  the  will  without 
reason,  only  because  we  find  ourselves  strongly  in- 
clined to  this  or  that,  is  a  very  dangerous  way,  and 
may  engage  us  in  very  dangerous  practices. 


MASTER. 


SERVANT. 


Death,  in  a  very  little  time,  may  make  the  master 
and  the  servant  equal.  Let  us  anticipate  this  equality, 
by  treating  our  servants  with  compassion  ;  having 
respect  to  Christ  in  the  person  of  our  servant, — to 
Christ,  who  took  upon  Him  the  form  of  a  servant  for 
our  sakes. 


6- 


o- 


-o 


TUESDAY  MEDITATIOIS. 

TROUBLE,    PERSECUTIONS,   AFFLICTIONS,   ETC. 


"  Call,  upon  Me  in  the  time  of  trouble,  so  will 
I  hear  thee,  and  thou  shalt  praise  Me." — Psalm  1.  15. 

O  God,  who  seest  all  our  weaknesses,  and  the 
troubles  we  labour  under,  have  regard  unto  the 
prayers  of  Thy  servant,  who  stands  in  need  of  Thy 
comfort,  Thy  direction,  and  Thy  help. 

Grant  that  I  may  suffer  like  a  Christian,  and  not 
grieve  like  an  unbeliever  ;  that  I  may  receive  troubles 
as  punishments  due  to  my  past  offences,  as  an  exer- 
cise of  my  faith,  and  patience,  and  humility,  and  as 
a  trial  of  my  obedience  ;  and  that  I  may  improve  all 
my  afflictions  to  the  good  of  my  soul,  and  Thy  glory. 

Thou  alone  knowest  what  is  best  for  us  :  let  me 
never  dispute  Thy  wisdom  or  Thy  goodness. 

Direct  my  reason,  subdue  my  passions,  put  a  stop 
to  my  roving  thoughts  and  fears,  and  let  me  have  the 
comfort  of  Thy  promise,  and  of  Thy  protection,  both 
now  and  ever,  for  Jesus  Christ's  sake.     Amen. 

"  If  ye  endure  chastening,  God  dealeth  with  you 
as  with  sons :  for  what  son  is  he  whom  the  father 


6 


-O 


O— -Q 

TUESDAY    MEDITATIONS.  233 

chasteneth  not  ?  But  if  ye  are  without  chastisement, 
whereof  all  are  partakers,  then  are  ye  bastards,  and 
not  sons." — Hebrews  xii.  7. 

"  I  will  bear  the  indignation  of  the  Lord,  because 
I  have  sinned  against  Him." — Micah  vii.  9. 

If  I  am  despised  or  slighted,  I  ought  to  consider 
it  as  a  favour,  since  this  is  a  mark  of  God's  children  ; 
and  therefore  I  ought  to  thank  Him  for  it,  and  not 
be  angry  with  those  whom  He  makes  His  instruments 
to  subdue  and  mortify  my  pride. 

"  Rejoice,  inasmuch  as  ye  are  made  partakers  of 
the  sufferings  of  Christ ;  that  when  His  glory  shall 
be  revealed,  ye  may  be  glad  also  with  exceeding  joy," 
— 1  Peter  iv.  13, — viz.,  because  your  reward  will  be 
proportionable  to  your  sufferings. 

"  Blessed  are  ye  when  men  shall  revile  you,  and 
persecute  you,  and  shall  say  all  manner  of  evil  against 
you  falsely  for  My  sake.  Rejoice,  and  be  exceeding 
glad  ;  for  great  is  your  reward  in  Heaven ;  for  so 
persecuted  they  the  prophets  which  were  before  you." 
—Matthew  v.  11,  12. 

The  mystery  of  the  Cross  is  to  be  learned  under 
the  Cross. 

"  Fear  not  them  which  kill  the  body,  but  are  not 
able  to  kill  the  soul  :  but  rather  fear  Him  which  is 
able  to  destroy  both  body  and  soul  in  hell.  Are  not 
two  sparrows  sold  for  a  farthing  ?  and  one  of  them 
shall  not  fall  to  the  ground  without  your  Father. 
The  very  hairs  of  your  head  are  all  numbered." — 
Matthew  x.  28,  29. 

"  Humble   yourselves  under  the  mighty  hand  of 

O 


o o 

234  SACRA    PRIVATA, 

God,  [under  great  afflictions  which  he  suffers  to  befall 
you,]  that  He  may  exalt  you  in  due  time  :  casting  all 
your  care  upon  Him ;  for  He  careth  for  you." — 1 
Peter  v.  6,  7. 

"  Thy  will  be  done." — Matthew  vi.  10. 

It  is  just,  great  God,  it  should  be  so ;  for  who 
should  govern  the  world  but  He  that  made  it  ?  And 
yet  we  poor  creatures  repine  wlien  any  thing  crosses 
our  hopes  or  designs.  What  strange  unthoughtful- 
ness !  what  presumption  is  this  !  And  it  is  Thy  great 
mercy  that  any  of  us  are  sensible  of  this  folly,  and 
become  willing  to  be  governed  by  Thee. 

With  all  my  heart  and  soul,  O  God,  I  thank  Thee, 
that  in  all  the  changes  and  chances  of  this  mortal 
life,  I  can  look  up  to  Thee,  and  cheerfully  resign  my 
will  to  Thine. 

It  is  the  desire  of  my  soul,  and  my  humble  peti- 
tion, that  I  may  always  be  ready  and  willing  to  sub- 
mit to  Thy  providence,  that  Thou  mayest  order  what 
Thou  judgest  to  be  most  convenient  for  me. 

I  have  trusted  Thee,  O  Father,  with  myself;  my 
soul  is  in  Thy  hand,  which  I  verily  believe  Thou  wilt 
preserve  to  eternal  happiness  :  my  body,  and  all  that 
belongs  to  it,  are  of  much  less  value.  I  do,  there- 
fore, with  as  great  security  and  satisfaction,  trust  all 
I  have  to  Thee,  hoping  Thou  wilt  preserve  me  from 
all  things  hurtful,  and  lead  me  to  all  things  profitable 
to  my  salvation. 

I  will  love  Thee,  O  God ;  being  satisfied  that  all 
things,  however  strange  and  irksome  they  appear, 
shall  work  together  for  good  to  those  that  do  so. 

O O 


o o 

TUESDAY    MEDITATIONS.  235 

I  know  in  whom  I  have  believed;  I  have  a  Sav- 
iour at  Thy  right  hand,  full  of  kindness,  full  of  care, 
full  of  power  ;  He  has  prayed  for  me,  that  this  faith 
fail  me  not ;  and  by  this  faith  I  am  persuaded,  that 
neither  tribulation,  nor  anguish,  nor  persecution,  nor 
famine,  nor  nakedness,  nor  peril,  nor  sword,  nor  death 
which  I  may  fear,  nor  life  which  I  may  hope  for,  nor 
things  present  which  I  feel,  nor  things  to  come  which 
I  may  apprehend,  shall  ever  prevail  so  far  over  me, 
as  to  make  me  not  to  resign  my  will  entirely  to  Thee. 

In  an  humble,  quiet,  and  dutiful  submission,  let  me 
faithfully  run  the  race  that  is  set  before  me,  looking 
unto  Jesus,  the  Author  and  Finisher  of  our  faith, 
who,  for  the  joy  that  was  set  before  Him,  despised 
the  shame,  endured  the  cross,  and  is  now  seated  at 
the  right  hand  of  God  ;  to  whom  I  most  humbly  be- 
seech Thee  to  bring  me  in  Thy  good  time ;  and  for 
whatever  shall  fall  out  in  the  mean  while,  thy  will 
BE  DONE.     Amen. 


LOOK    unto    JESUS. 

He  was  despised  and  rejected  of  men ;  His  life 
was  sought  for  by  Herod  ;  He  was  tempted  by  Satan  ; 
hated  by  that  world  which  he  came  to  save ;  set  at 
nought  by  His  own  people  ;  called  a  deceiver  and  a 
dealer  with  the  devil ;  was  driven  from  place  to  place, 
and  had  not  where  to  lay  His  head ;  betrayed  by  one 
disciple,  and  forsaken  by  all  the  rest ;  falsely  accused, 
spit  upon,  and  scourged ;  set  at  nought  by  Herod  and 

6 6 


o o 

236  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

his  men  of  war ;  given  up  by  Pilate  to  the  will  of  His 
enemies ;  had  a  murderer  preferred  before  Him  ;  was 
condemned  to  a  most  cruel  and  shameful  death ;  cru- 
cified between  two  thieves ;  reviled  in  the  midst  of 
His  torments ;  had  gall  and  vinegar  given  Him  to 
drink ;  suffered  a  most  bitter  death,  submitting  with 
patience  to  the  will  of  His  Father. 

O  Jesu,  who  now  sittest  at  the  right  hand  of  God, 
to  succour  all  who  suffer  in  a  righteous  way ;  be 
Thou  my  advocate  for  grace,  that  in  all  my  suffer- 
ings, I  may  follow  Thy  example,  and  run  with  pa- 
tience the  race  that  is  set  before  me.     Amen. 

Take  all  things  that  befall  you  as  coming  from 
God's  providence,  for  your  particular  profit.  And 
though  they  are  evil  in  themselves,  yet  as  He  per- 
mits, or  does  not  think  fit  to  hinder  them,  they  may 
be  referred  to  Him. 

God  no  sooner  discovers  in  your  heart  an  ardent 
desire  of  well-doing,  and  of  submitting  to  His  will, 
but  he  prepares  for  you  occasions  of  trying  your  vir- 
tue ;  and  therefore,  confident  of  His  love,  receive 
cheerfully  a  medicine  prepared  by  a  physician  that 
cannot  be  mistaken,  and  cannot  give  you  any  thing 
but  what  will  be  for  your  good. 

See  Ecclus.  chap.  ii.     The  whole  chapter.* 

Lord,  prepare  my  heart,  that  no  afflictions  may 
ever  so  surprise,  as  to  overbear  me. 

*  This  chapter  (says  the  author)  was  the  lesson  for  the  day,  March  25th, 
1727,  at  a  time  when  I  was  much  perplexed  about  the  attempts  made  upon 
the  Episcopal  jurisdiction  ;  and  this  I  cannot  but  remark,  since  to  my  ex- 
ceeding great  comfort  and  dire<;tion,  it  has  often  so  happened,  I  am  per- 
suaded, by  a  special  providence  of  God. 

6 


Q O 

TUESDAY    MEDITATIONS.  237 

Dispose  me  at  all  times  to  a  readiness  to  suffer 
what  Thy  providence  shall  order  or  permit. 

It  is  the  same  cup  which  Jesus  Christ  drank  of; 
it  is  He  sends  it.  He  sees  it  absolutely  necessary 
that  I  must  be  first  partaker  of  His  sufferings,  and 
then  of  His  glory. 

"  And  ye  shall  be  hated  of  all  men  for  My  name's 
sake ;  but  he  that  shall  endure  to  the  end  shall  be 
saved." — Matthew  x.  22. 

It  is  indeed  grievous  to  nature  to  be  thus  treated ; 
but  when  it  is  for  Thy  name's  sake,  O  Jesus,  and  for 
the  sake  of  Thy  truth,  and  for  being  true  to  Thee ; 
how  lovely  is  this  hatred ;  and  how  advantageous 
when  salvation  is  the  reward  ! 

**  The  disciple  is  not  above  his  master,  nor  the 
servant  above  his  lord." — Matthew  x.  24. 

He  who  keeps  this  saying  in  his  heart,  will 
never  complain  of  what  he  suffers,  nor  seek  for  any 
other  way  to  save  himself,  but  by  humiliation  and 
the  Cross. 

SUFFERING. 

O  Lord,  grant  that  whenever  I  suffer,  it  may  be 
for  being  faithful  to  Thee,  and  without  drawing  it 
unseasonably  upon  myself 

We  are  in  God's  hands  ;  we  often  take  ourselves 
out  of  His  hands,  by  trusting  to  the  help  and  protec- 
tion of  men,  more  than  that  of  God. 

God  can  render  none  miserable  but  those  whom 
He  finds  sinners.  Let  us  apply  this  to  ourselves 
6 


Q 

238  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

when  in  affliction,  but  not  unto  others,  or  to  their 
personal  faults. 

"  As  many  as  I  love,  I  rebuke  and  chasten ;  be 
zealous,  therefore,  and  repent." — Rev.  iii.  19. 

Blessed  be  God,  who  vouchsafes,  by  salutary  chas- 
tisements, to  awaken  us  when  we  fall  asleep  through 
sloth  and  lukewarmness.  Grant  that  I  may,  with  a 
true  zeal,  and  timely  repentance,  make  good  use  of 
all  Thy  rebukes. 

Grant,  O  God,  that  I  may  never  murmur  at  Thy 
appointments,  nor  be  exasperated  against  the  minis- 
ters of  Thy  providence. 

In  Thee,  O  Jesus,  we  find  matter  of  consolation, 
in  every  affliction  that  can  possibly  befall  us. 

All  visitations  are  from  God.  He  is  not  delighted 
with  the  miseries  of  His  poor  creatures  ;  afflictions 
are  therefore  designed  for  our  good.  He  will  either 
show  us  the  reason  of  this  visitation,  or  make  us  reap 
the  fruits  of  it. 

People  that  may  be  well  disposed,  may  yet  live 
under  the  power  of  some  evil  custom,  which  is  dis- 
pleasing to  God  ;  a  man  may  have  been  guilty  of 
some  great  sin  which  he  has  yet  never  truly  repented 
of,  or  been  truly  humbled  for.  This  was  the  case 
with  the  sons  of  Jacob ;  they  had  attempted  the  life 
of,  and  afterwards  sold,  their  brother,  and  endangered 
the  life  of  their  aged  father  ;  under  which  guilt  they 
passed  their  life  well  enough  for  many  years,  till  God 
visited  them  ;  and  then  they  thought  of  their  sin, 
confessed,  and  repented. 


o- 


. _ o 

TUESDAY   MEDITATIONS.  239 

God,  by  afflictions,  often  fits  us  for  greater  de- 
grees of  grace  which  He  is  going  to  bestow. 

Though  I  suffer,  yet  I  am  well,  because  I  am 
what  God  would  have  me  to  be. 

Lord,  do  not  permit  my  trials  to  be  above  my 
strength,  and  do  Thou  vouchsafe  to  be  my  strength 
and  comfort  in  the  time  of  trial. 

Grant,  O  Lord,  that  I  may  never  be  wanting  to 
the  cause  of  truth,  nor  expose  it  by  any  indiscretion, 
or  unseasonable  transports  of  zeal. 

Jesus  Christ  avoids  persecution.*  To  suffer  for 
righteousness'  sake  is  well  pleasing  to  God  ;  but  then 
it  must  be  done  according  to  the  appointment  of  God, 
not  out  of  a  proud  zeal. 

Give  me  grace  to  take  in  good  part  whatever  shall 
befall  me,  and  let  my  heart  acknowledge  it  to  be  the 
Lord's  doing,  and  to  come  from  thy  providence,  and 
not  by  chance. 

God  makes  use  of  afflictions — sometimes  by  way 
of  prevention  ;  "  lest  I  should  be  exalted,"  said  St. 
Paul  ;f  to  reform  them  ;  "  before  I  was  afflicted,  I 
went  astray  ;"|  to  perfect  them ;  patience,  courage, 
submission  to  the  will  of  God,  are  graces  not  so  much 
as  understood  by  people  who  meet  with  no  adversi- 
ties ;  "  we  must  through  much  tribulation  enter  into 
the  kingdom  of  God;"||  to  prove  men,  and  show 
them  for  examples  ;  if  a  man  had  no  enemies,  how 
could  he  show  his  charity  in  forgiving  them? 

Never  consider  so  much  the  instrument  of  your 

*  John  vii.  1.  f  2  Cor.  xii,  &;c.  J  Psalm  cxix.  ||  Acts  xiv.  22. 

o o 


240  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

afflictions  as  the  meaning  of  the  good  providence  of 
God  in  these  things. 

Afflictions  are  no  marks  of  God's  displeasure. 
Jesus  loved  Mary  and  Lazarus,  yet  they  w^ere  both 
afflicted. — John  xi.  5. 

Punishment  is  due  to  sin.  We  must  be  punished 
here  or  hereafter  ;  it  is  the  cause  of  all  afflictions, 
and  designed  by  our  gracious  God  to  bring  us  to  re- 
pentance. 

Prosperity  is  a  most  dangerous  state ;  we  fancy  it 
is  owing  to  our  merit,  and  it  is  followed  with  pride, 
neglect  of  duty,  fearlessness. 

It  is  happy  for  us  when  God  counts  us  worthy  to 
suffer  for  His  name's  sake ;  to  contend  with  Satan, 
as  Job  did,  and  be  able,  through  God's  grace,  to 
overcome  so  powerful  a  spirit. 

Afflictions,  undergone  with  resignation,  are  the 
great  test  of  our  love  of  God ;  when  we  love  Him, 
then  He  chastens  us.  May  God  sanctify  all  our 
afflictions  to  us  all. 

May  I  receive  every  thing  from  Thy  hand  with 
patience  and  with  joy  ! 

Remember  me,  O  God,  in  the  day  of  trouble. 
Secure  me,  by  Thy  grace,  from  all  .excess  of  fear, 
concern,  and  sadness. 

Let  the  afflictions  I  meet  with  be  in  some  mea- 
sure serviceable  towards  the  appeasing  of  Thy  wrath. 
Let  them  prove  the  happy  occasion  of  forwarding  my 
conversion  and  salvation. 


O O 


o— o 

TUESDAY    MEDITATIONS.  241 

TEMPTATION. 

We  are  exposed  to  temptation  all  our  days.  Men 
are  never  more  dangerously  tempted,  than  when  they 
think  themselves  secure  from  temptation.  This  is  a 
proof  of  the  power  the  devil  has  over  them. 

We  tempt  God  when  we  expose  ourselves  unne- 
cessarily to  dangers,  through  a  false  confidence  of  his 
assistance. 

DESPAIR.  HOPE. 

Grant,  O  God,  that,  amidst  all  the  discourage- 
ments, difficulties,  dangers,  distress,  and  darkness  of 
this  mortal  life,  I  may  depend  upon  Thy  mercy,  and 
on  this  build  my  hopes,  as  on  a  sure  foundation. 

Let  Thine  infinite  mercy  in  Christ  Jesus  deliver 
me  from  despair,  both  now  and  at  the  hour  of  death. 

RESIGNATION. 

Grant  that  I  may  receive  the  punishment  of  my 
sins  with  patience  and  resignation. 

INJURIES.  PERSECUTION. 

Give  me,  O  God,  a  heart  to  consider,  that  man 
could  have  no  power  against  me,  unless  it  were  given 
from  above.* 


*  John  xix.  11. 
10 


-o 


o— o 

242  SACRA    PRIVATA. 


ENEMIES. 

A  Christian  should  not  discover  that  he  has  ene- 
mies any  other  way  than  by  doing  more  good  to  them 
than  to  others.  "  If  thine  enemy  hunger,  feed  him; 
if  he  thirst,  give  him  drink."  He  will  therefore  be 
careful  not  to  lose  such  occasions. 

0  Jesu  !  whose  charity  all  the  malice  of  Thy 
bitterest  enemies  could  not  overcome,  shed  abroad  in 
my  heart  that  most  excellent  gift  of  charity,  the  very 
bond  of  peace,  and  of  all  virtues. 

"  Rejoice  not  over  thy  greatest  enemy  being  dead  ; 
but  remember  that  we  die  all." — Ecclus.  viii.  7. 

Our  enemies  are  our  benefactors,  procuring  for 
us  a  new  right  to  heaven. 

1  pray  God  convert  all  those  who  hate  us  without 
cause. 

I  beseech  Thee  for  my  enemies,  not  for  ven- 
geance, but  for  mercy ;  that  Thou  wouldst  change 
their  hearts  by  Thy  grace,  or  restrain  their  malice 
by  Thy  power. 

IN    TIME    OF    WAR. 

O  sovereign  Lord  !  Who  for  our  sins  art  justly 
displeased,  I  prostrate  myself  before  Thee,  confessing 
my  own  sin  and  the  sin  of  this  people  ;  acknowledg- 
ing the  justice  of  any  scourge  which  Thou  shalt  think 
fit  to  bring  upon  us;  and  trembling  to  think  how 
much  I  may  have  contributed  toward  it. 


O- 


T 

TUESDAY    MEDITATIONS.  243 

Thou  hast  already  spoken  to  us  both  by  Thy 
judgments  and  mercies,  both  by  the  scarcity  and 
plenty  of  bread  ;  and  we  have  not  regarded  it.  Thou 
hast  taken  away  the  lives  of  many,  very  many,  in 
their  very  sins,  by  which  numerous  widows  and  father- 
less children  have  been  left  miserable. 

The  sins  of  whoredom  and  drunkenness ;  of 
swearing,  lying,  and  perjury ;  of  litigiousness,  injus- 
tice, defrauding  the  public,  and  sacrilege,  are  made 
light  of. 

The  sins  of  impiety,  of  profaneness,  of  despising 
the  means  of  grace  and  salvation,  are  too  common 
amongst  us. 

What  shall  we  say,  to  prevail  with  God  to  avert 
the  judgments  which  these  sins  deserve  ? 

God  be  merciful  unto  us,  and  put  a  stop  to  this 
torrent  of  wickedness ;  put  Thy  fear  into  all  our 
hearts,  that  we  may  return  to  Thee ;  that  we  may 
repent,  and  bring  forth  fruit  meet  for  repentance ; 
and  that  iniquity  may  not  be  our  ruin. 

May  the  dread  of  Thy  now  threatened  judgments 
deter  us  from  evil ;  may  Thy  goodness  and  patience 
lead  us  to  repentance  ;  weaken  the  power  of  Satan  ; 
take  from  among  us  the  spirit  of  slumber,  of  igno- 
rance, and  inconsideration. 

Let  every  one  of  us  see  and  feel  the  plague  of 
his  own  heart,  and  say,  ''  What  have  I  done  to  bring 
these  evils  upon  us  ?"  So  that  bringing  forth  fruits 
answerable  to  amendment  of  life,  we  may  escape 
Thy  judgment  now  hanging  over  us ;  and  above 
all,  Thy  judgment  against  sinners  in  the  world  to 
C 


o o 

244  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

come.     And  this  I  beg  for  Jesus  Christ  His  sake. 
Amen. 

JUDGMENT    DAY. 

Grant,  O  Lord,  that  I  may  be  of  the  number  of 
those  that  shall  find  mercy  that  day. 

ZACCHiEUS. 

The  good  Lord  grant  that  I  may  give  a  proof  of 
the  smcerity  of  my  conversion  by  a  change  of  life. 


6- 


o- 


-o 


WEMESDAY  MEMT ATIOIS. 


COVETOUSNESS,  FASTING,  DIFFICULTIES,  ETC. 


"  All  these  things  will  I  give  Thee.  Get  thee 
hence,  Satan,  for  it  is  written,  Thou  shalt  worship 
the  Lord  thy  God,  and  Him  only  shalt  thou  serve." 
— Matthew  iv.  9,  10. 

Great  and  glorious  God,  Who  alone  art  worthy  of 
our  love  and  service,  cure  me  of,  and  preserve  me 
from,  the  sin  and  vanity  of  admiring  this  world. 

Give  me  grace  to  renounce  all  covetous  desires, 
all  love  of  riches  and  pleasures ;  to  desire  only  what 
is  necessary,  and  to  be  content  with  what  Thou,  O 
Lord,  thinkest  so ; — 

Not  to  be  troubled  at  the  loss  or  want  of  any  thing 
besides  Thy  favour  ; — 

That  no  business,  no  pleasures,  may  divert  me 
from  the  thoughts  of  the  world  to  come : — 

That  I  may  cheerfully  part  with  all  these  things 
when  Thou  requirest  it  of  me  ; — 


-O 


246  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

And  that  I  may  ever  be  prepared  to  do  so,  dis- 
pose me  to  a  temperance  in  all  things,  and  to  lay 
up  my  treasure  in  heaven,  for  Jesus  Christ's  sake. 
Amen. 

"  Woe  unto  you  that  are  rich,  for  ye  have  received 
your  consolation," — Luke  vi.  24. 

A  man  must  have  but  little  faith,  vt^ho  can  read 
these  words,  and  yet  love  riches,  and  the  pleasures 
they  afford. 

Lord,  grant  that  I  may  resist  every  temptation  to 
the  love  of  creatures ;  lest  they  steal  my  heart  from 
Thee,  my  God,  Whom  I  desire  to  love  w^ith  all  my  soul. 

I  know  that  I  must,  in  a  great  measure,  renounce 
all  other  objects  of  my  affection,  in  order  to  love 
Thee  with  all  my  heart.  Lord,  give  me  grace  and 
strength  to  put  this  in  practice. 

"  Love  not  the  world,  nor  the  things  that  are  in 
the  world  ;  if  any  man  love  the  world,  the  love  of  the 
Father  is  not  in  him." — 1  John  ii.  15. 

Grant,  O  Lord,  that  I  may  never  hope  to  recon- 
cile two  things  so  inconsistent  as  the  love  of  Thee 
and  the  world. 

''  Blessed  are  the  poor  in  spirit ;  for  theirs  is  the 
kingdom  of  heaven." — Matthew  v.  3. 

To  be  poor  in  spirit,  is  to  be  disengaged  from 
wealth ;  to  look  upon  it  as  a  burden,  or  as  a  trust. 

"  Having  food  and  raiment,  let  us  be  therewith 
content." — 1  Timothy  vi.  8. 

And  yet  even  the  Christian  world  is  not  content 
without  superfluities  and  excess.  These  disorders 
are  not  less  criminal  because  so  common. 


-O 


— o 

WEDNESDAY    MEDITATIONS.  247 

"  Following  the  way  of  Balaam." — 2  Peter  ii.  15. 

Nothing  is  more  to  be  dreaded  than  covetousness ; 
when  a  man  has  sat  his  heart  upon  his  own  interests, 
he  easily  forgets  those  of  his  Great  Master. 

Give  me,  O  Lord,  the  eyes  of  faith,  that  I  may 
see  the  world  just  as  it  is ;  the  vanity  of  its  promises, 
the  folly  of  its  pleasures,  the  unprofitableness  of  its 
rewards,  the  multitude  of  its  snares,  and  the  danger 
of  its  temptations. 

FASTING. 

Jesus  Christ  spared  not  his  innocent  flesh,  but 
fasted ;  the  sinner  cherisheth  his  continually,  refus- 
inff  it  nothincr. 

Fasting  is  in  some  sense  a  punishment  and  expi- 
ation for  past  sins,  a  remedy  for  present  temptations, 
and  a  preservative  against  future. 

*'  My  heart  is  smitten,  and  withered  like  grass, 
so  that  I  forget  to  eat  my  bread." — Psalm  cii.  4. 

The  humble  and  afflicted  soul  is  not  much  con- 
cerned to  please  the  appetite, 

"  Woe  unto  you  that  are  full,  for  ye  shall  hunger." 
— Luke  vi,  25.  That  is,  ye  whose  daily  meals  are 
feasts,  who  make  profession  of  a  life  of  sensuality, 
who  know  not  what  it  is  to  fast,  even  when  the  church 
requires  it : — woe  to  such  Christians  ! 

If  we  judge  ourselves  with  severity,  we  shall  be 
judged  with  mercy. 

IN    TIME    OF    TROUBLE. 

"  When  Thou  with  rebukes  dost  correct  man  for 

— 6 


O — _ Q 

248  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

iniquity,  Thou  makest  his  beauty  to  consume  away 
like  a  moth." — Psalm  xxxix.  11. 

0  merciful  God,  Who,  in  thy  wise  providence, 
dost  so  order  even  natural  events,  that  they  serve 
both  for  the  good  of  the  universe,  and  for  the  con- 
viction of  particular  sinners,  so  that  men  shall  have 
reason  to  acknowledge  Thy  glorious  attributes ;  I 
do  with  great  sorrow  of  heart,  but  with  all  submission 
to  Thy  good  pleasure,  confess  Thy  mercy  as  well  as 
justice  to  me  in  the  judgments,  afflictions,  sorrows, 
of  this  day. 

1  acknowledge  Thy  voice,  O  merciful  God,  I 
acknowledge  my  own  transgressions,  which  have  pro- 
voked Thee  to  speak  to  me  after  this  manner,  and  at 
this  very  time. 

O  Lord,  give  me  true  repentance  for  all  the  errors 
of  my  life,  and  particularly  for  that  which  was,  in  all 
probability,  the  occasion  of  this  affliction. 

Blessed  be  God,  that  my  punishment  was  not  as 
great  as  my  crime. 

Blessed  be  God,  that  He  has  given  me  time  to 
repent  of  the  sin  that  provoked  Him  to  deal  with  me 
after  this  manner. 

Blessed  be  God,  that  when  he  spake  to  me  once, 
yea,  twice,  that  I  regarded  it  at  last. 

Good  God  of  mercy,  give  me  grace  that  I  may 
not  provoke  Thee  any  more  to  repeat  this  word  to 
me,  but  that  I  may  faithfully  perform  those  vows 
which  are  upon  me.  This  I  cannot  do  without  Thy 
gracious  assistance,  which  I  most  humbly  beseech 
Thee  to  vouchsafe  me,  for  Jesus  Christ's  sake.  Who 


0-- 


■A 


WEDNESDAY    MEDITATIONS.  249 

by  His  merits  has  purchased  this  grace  for  all  that 
faithfully  ask  it  of  Thee  ;  for  His  sake,  O  merciful 
God,  grant  me  this  grace.     Amen. 

I  do,  in  all  humility,  accept  of  the  punishment  of 
mine  iniquities. 

I  will  hold  my  peace,  and  not  open  my  mouth, 
because  it  is  Thy  doing  and  my  deservings. 

I  know,  O  Lord,  that  it  is  good  for  me  to  be  in 
trouble,  or  Thou  wouldest  not  suffer  it  so  to  be. 

Let  Thy  merciful  kindness  be  my  comfort,  accord- 
ing to  Thy  promise  to  all  that  love  and  serve  Thee. 

DIFFICULTIES. 

We  are  to  pray  for  the  particular  direction  of 
God's  Holy  Spirit  upon  all  great  occasions ;  we  are 
humbly  to  depend  upon  and  cheerfully  to  expect  it, 
which  He  will  manifest,  either  by  some  plain  event 
or  determination  of  His  providence,  or  by  suggesting 
such  reasons  as  ouo-ht  to  determine  the  will  to  a  wise 
choice. 

But  to  follow  the  inclinations  of  the  will  without 
reason,  only  because  we  are  strongly  inclined  to  a 
thing,  is  a  very  dangerous  way,  and  will  engage  men 
in  evil  practices  and  endless  scruples. 

The  Spirit  of  God  brings  into  our  minds  new 
lights,  sets  them  home,  inclines  us  to  attend  to  them, 
&/C.  But  let  men  take  heed  of  setting  up  idols  in 
their  hearts  ;  and  then  go  and  inquire  of  the  Lord — 
He  will  answer  them. 


O O 


o 


250  SACIIA    PRIVATA. 


IN    A    LAW-SUIT. 

Convince  me,  O  God,  if  I  am  under  any  mistake 
in  this  affair. 

Direct,  assist,  and  support  me  under  all  the  dif- 
ficulties I  shall  meet  with. 

Put  a  happy  end,  in  Thy  good  time,  to  this  trou- 
blesome controversy. 

Dispose  the  hearts  of  those  with  whom  we  have 
to  do  to  peace  and  justice. 

Give  me  grace  to  rest  satisfied  with  whatever 
shall  be  the  issue,  believing  assuredly,  that  God  can 
make  good  any  loss  I  may  sustain,  or  sanctify  it  to 
my  eternal  welfare. 

Lord,  in  this  and  in  all  other  things  I  undertake, 
*'  Thy  will  be  done,  and  not  mine." 

0  manifest  Thy  will  to  me,  preserve  me  from 
evil  counsels,  and  from  rash  enterprises. 

Give  me  true  Christian  resolution,  which  will 
neither  be  tried  nor  discouraored  with  difficulties 
while  I  am  in  the  way  of  my  duty, 

FAITH. 

Grant,  O  God,  that  I  may  with  humility  receive, 
and  with  perseverance  hold  fast,  all  those  truths 
which  Thou  hast  revealed. 

1  thank  Thee,  O  God,  for  Thy  Holy  word,  and 
for  that  Thou  hast  not  left  us  in  the  affair  of  eternity, 
to  the  uncertainty  of  our  own  reason  and  judgment. 

O: — O 


-o 


WEDNESDAY    MEDITATIONS. 


251 


Defend  me  against  all  delusions  of  error ;  the 
snares  of  wit  and  learning  ;  the  railleries  of  profane 
men  ;  and  from  deserting  the  truth  under  oppression. 

Grant,  O  God,  that  neither  education,  interest, 
prejudice,  nor  passion,  may  ever  hinder  me  from  dis- 
cerning the  truth. 

Open  the  eyes  of  all  that  are  in  error  ;  heal  the 
wounds  of  the  divided  church  ;  that  we  may  be  one 
fold  under  one  Shepherd.     Amen. 


O- 


-Q 


o 


THURSMY  MEMTATIOIS 


RELIGIOUS  DISCOURSE,   FORGIVENESS,  ALMS, 
CHARITY,  ETC. 


"  Let  no  corrupt  communication  proceed  out  of 
your  mouth,  but  that  which  is  good  to  the  use  of 
edifying,  that  it  may  minister  grace  unto  the  hear- 
ers."— Ephesians  iv.  29. 

"  Foolish  talking  and  jesting  are  not  convenient." 
Ephesians  v.  4. 

Preserve  me,  O  God,  from  a  vain  conversation. 
Give  me  grace  never  to  be  ashamed  or  afraid  to 
speak  of  Thee,  and  of  Thy  law. 

Give  me  a  lively  sense  of  the  value  of  religion, 
and  make  it  the  delight  of  my  heart ;  that  I  may 
speak  of  it  with  great  judgment,  seriousness,  and 
affection,  and  at  all  seasonable  times. 

"  Then  they  that  feared  the  Lord  spake  often 
one  to  another." — Malachi  iii.  10. 

"  Out  of  the  abundance  of  the  heart  the  mouth 
speaketh. — How  can  ye,  being  evil,  speak  good 
things  ? — By  thy  words  thou  shalt  be  justified,  and 


O- 


-o 


o o 

THURSDAY    MEDITATIONS.  253 

by  thy  words  thou  shalt  be  condemned." — Matthew 
xii.  34. 

We  count  words  for  nothing,  and  yet  eternity 
depends  upon  them. 

"  Set  a  guard,  O  Lord,  upon  my  mouth,  and  keep 
the  door  of  my  lips. — Psalm  cxli.  3. 

'*  The  mouth  of  the  righteous  speaketh  wisdom, 
and  his  tongue  talketh  of  judgment." — Psalm  xxxvii. 
30. 

The  want  of  religious  discourse  in  common  con- 
versation  is  one  of  the  chief  causes  of  the  decay  of 
Christian  piety. 

Hearts  truly  touched  with  the  love  of  God,  will 
communicate  light  and  heat  to  others  in  their  ordi- 
nary conversation, — will  speak  honourably  of  God, 
of  His  perfections,  His  justice,  goodness,  wisdom, 
and  power  ;  the  excellency  of  His  laws,  the  pleasant- 
ness of  His  service,  the  instances  of  His  love,  the 
rewards  He  has  promised  to  His  friends,  and  the 
punishments  He  has  prepared  for  His  enemies. 

And  by  doing  so,  we  shall  recommend  God  and 
relicrion  to  those  we  converse  with — win  over  sub- 
jects  to  Him,  &lc.,  and  add  to  our  own  happiness. 

"  Let  your  light  so  shine  before  men,  that  they 
may  see  your  good  works,  and  glorify  your  Father 
which  is  in  heaven." — Matthew  v.  16. 

*'  Let  us  consider  one  another,  to  provoke  unto 
love,  and  to  good  works." — Heb.  x.  24. 

The  more  spiritual  our  minds  are,  the  more  hea- 
venly will  our  conversation  be  with  those  we  dis- 
course with. 

6 : b 


o— o 

254  SACRA    PRIVATA. 


RULES. 

Never  talk  of  religion  but  when  you  think  seri- 
ously of  it.  Not  to  betray  the  want  of  it  by  one's 
discourse  of  it,  which  should  be  decent,  grave,  sober, 
prudent. 

That  our  discourse  of  religion  be  practical  rather 
than  notional,  or  disputing  ;  that  it  be  devout,  edify- 
ing after  a  hearty  and  affectionate  manner. 

That  it  be  seasonable ;  that  is,  when  men  are 
like  to  be  the  better  for  it.  Not  in  promiscuous 
company  ;  not  mixed  with  sports,  hurry,  business, 
nor  with  drink. 

And  that  we  join  a  good  life  to  our  religious  con- 
versation ;  and  never  contradict  our  tongue  by  our 
deeds. 

"  As  He  sat  at  meat.  He  took  bread,  and  blessed 
it,  and  brake,  and  gave  to  them,  and  their  eyes  were 
opened." — Luke  xxiv.  30. 

We  may  know  religious  persons,  not  only  in  the 
exercise  of  religious  actions,  but  even  in  the  most 
common  actions  of  life,  which  they  convert  into  holy 
actions,  by  the  manner  of  doing  them,  the  holiness 
of  their  dispositions,  by  prayer,  thanksgiving,  6lc. 

We  always  do  good  or  harm  to  others  by  the 
manner  of  our  conversation  ;  we  either  confirm  them 
in  sin,  or  awaken  them  to  piety. 

It  is  too  true,  that  some  evil  passion  or  other, 
and  to  gratify  our  corruption,  is  the  aim  of  most 
conversations.     We  love  to  speak  of  past  troubles ; 

O — — O 


CO — o 

THURSDAY    MEDITATIONS.  255 

hatred  and  ill-will  make  us  take  pleasure  in  relating 
the  evil  actions  of  our  enemies.  We  compare,  with 
some  degree  of  pride,  the  advantages  we  have  over 
others.  We  recount  with  too  sensible  a  pleasure, 
the  worldly  happiness  we  enjoy.  This  strengthens 
our  passions,  and  increases  our  corruption.  God 
grant  that  I  may  watch  against  a  weakness,  which 
has  such  evil  consequences. 

"  Refrain  not  to  speak  when  there  is  an  occasion 
to  do  good." — Ecclus.  iv.  23. 

It  is  an  extraordinary  talent  to  be  able  to  improve 
conversation  to  the  advantage  of  religion,  by  taking 
some  fit  occasion  to  say  something  that  is  edifying 
and  beneficial. 

The  great  subject  of  a  Christian's  discourse 
should  be,  about  the  true  way  of  attaining  the  grace 
of  God,  through  the  blood  of  Christ,  and  by  the 
assistance  of  the  Holy  Spirit.  But  then  they  must 
say  no  more  than  what  they  are  sure  of,  lest  they 
should  lead  men  into  error.  For  the  Lord  will  not 
hold  him  guiltless  that  taketh  his  name  in  vain,  and 
speaketh  not  the  truth  as  it  is  in  Jesus. 

Let  us  take  all  opportunities  of  communicating 
our  belief  of  Christ  to  others,  both  to  bear  witness 
and  confess  Him  before  men,  and  to  increase  our 
own  faith  and  reward. 

May  I  never  hear,  never  repeat  with  pleasure, 
such  things  as  may  dishonour  God,  hurt  my  own 
character,  or  injure  my  neighbour. 

"  I  will  pour  out  my  Spirit  upon  all  flesh ;   and 


o- 


o 


256  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

your  sons  and  your  daughters  shall  prophecy,"  fcc. 
—Joel  ii.  28,  29. 

That  is,  their  discourse  shall  be  chiefly  upon  sub- 
jects of  practical  Christianity,  of  Jesus  Christ,  and 
what  he  has  done  and  suffered  for  us,  and  of  the  way 
to  attain  eternal  happiness. 

"  Speak  not  evil  one  of  another." — James  iv,  11. 

True  humility  makes  us  see  our  own  faults,  with- 
out concernincr  ourselves  with  the  faults  of  others. 

"  A  word  spoken  in  due  season,  how  good  is  it  !" 
— Proverbs  xx.  23. 

AGAINST    SLOTH. 


"  Slothfulness  casteth  into  a  deep  sleep." — Pro- 
verbs xix.  5. 

O  God,  who  hast  given  me  an  active  spirit,  and 
many  opportunities  of  doing  Thee  service,  give  me 
grace  to  make  use  of  all  occasions  of  serving  Thee 
faithfully  and  doing  good  in  my  generation  ;  make 
me  to  abhor  that  sloth  which  would  lead  me  into  an 
insensibility  and  forgetfulness  of  Thee  and  of  my 
errand  into  the  world  ;  keep  me  from  idleness,  which 
would  expose  me  to  temptations,  enfeeble  my  mind, 
and  cover  me  with  rags  ;  make  me  ever  sensible  of 
the  great  evil  of  delaying  to  do  the  work  in  its  season 
which  Thou  hast  appointed  me,  that  whatever  my 
hand  by  Thy  providence  findeth  to  do,  I  may  do  it 
with  all  my  might ;  so  that  whenever  I  am  called  to 
give  an  account  of  my  labours  to  my  great  Master, 
I  may  not  be  judged  an  unprofitable  servant.    Accept 

O O 


o- 


THURSDAY   MEDITATIONS.  257 

I, 

I 

of  my  ambition  of  serving  Thee,  great  God  ;  and  O, 
grant,  that  when  my  Lord  comes  He  may  find  me  so 
doing.     Amen. 

AGAINST    ANGER. 

"  Be  not  hasty  in  thy  spirit  to  be  angry,  for  anger 
resteth  in  the  bosom  of  fools." — Ecclesiastes  vii.  9. 

O  Lord,  who  art  a  God  ready  to  pardon,  slow  to 
anger,  and  of  great  kindness,  remove  far  from  me 
all  occasions  and  effects  of  causeless  and  immoderate 
anger  ;  all  pride  and  prejudice,  and  too  much  con- 
cern for  the  things  of  this  world ;  all  intemperate 
speeches,  and  indecent  passions. 

Give  me,  O  Lord,  a  mild,  a  peaceable,  a  meek, 
and  an  humble  spirit,  that,  remembering  my  own 
infirmities,  I  may  bear  with  those  of  others ;  that  I 
may  think  lowly  of  myself,  and  not  be  angry  when 
others  also  think  lowly  of  me  ;  that  I  may  be  patient 
towards  all  men,  gentle  and  easy  to  be  entreated  ; 
that  God,  for  Christ's  sake,  may  be  so  towards  me. 
Amen. 

"  Be  angry,  and  sin  not : — Let  not  the  sun  go 
down  upon  your  wrath." — Ephesians  iv.  26. 

"  The  discretion  of  a  man  deferreth  his  anger." 
— Proverbs  xix.  11. 

"  A  soft  answer  turneth  away  strife." 

"  He  that  is  slow  to  ancrer  is  better  than  the 
mighty ;  and  he  that  ruleth  his  spirit,  than  he  that 
taketh  a  city." — Proverbs  xvi.  32. 

"  Be  kindly  affectioned  one  towards  another." — 
Romans  xii.  10. 


O 


o 

258  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

Suppress  the  very  beginnings  of  anger. 

Do  not  use  to  indulge  it  even  where  there  are 
real  fauhs  ;  but  try  the  gentle  way,  which  may  proba- 
bly succeed  better,  and,  to  be  sure,  with  more  ease 
by  far. 

Seldom  do  people  vex  us  on  purpose,  and  yet 
prejudice  very  often  makes  us  think  that  they  do. 

A  sense  of  one's  own  integrity  will  make  one 
pass  by  injuries  more  easily. 

Be  not  too  much  concerned  to  tell  the  injuries 
you  have  received. 

Accustom  yourself  to  silence,  if  you  would  learn 
to  govern  your  tongue. 

Nemo  consilium,  cum  clamors  dat. — Seneca. 

Deliver  me,  O  God,  from  all  violent  and  sinful 
passions,  and  give  me  grace  to  stand  against  them. 

"  Blessed  are  the  meek." — Matthew  v.  4. 

Instruct  me.  Lord,  in  this  Christian  virtue  ;  Thou 
Who  art  the  Master  and  Teacher  of  it. 

FOR    FORGIVENESS    OF    INJURIES. 

"  Forgive,  and  ye  shall  be  forgiven." — Luke  vi. 
37. 

O  God,  Who  alone  canst  order  the  unruly  wills 
and  affections  of  sinful  men,  show  mercy  to  Thy 
servant,  in  forcing  my  corrupt  nature  to  be  obedient 
to  Thy  commands. 

O  God,  Who  hast  made  it  my  everlasting  inter- 
est, as  well  as  my  duty,  to  forgive  my  neighbour 
whatever  wrong  he  has  done  me ;  help  me  to  over- 
CD O 


9 9 

THURSDAY    MEDITATIONS.  259 

come  all  the  difficulties  1  have  to  struggle  with,  all 
pride,  prejudice,  and  desire  of  rendering  evil  for  evil, 
that  I  may  not  deprive  my  soul  of  that  mercy,  which 
Thine  infinite  goodness  has  offered  to  sinners. 

*'  He  shall  have  judgment  without  mercy,  that 
hath  shown  no  mercy," — James  ii.  13. 

O  blessed  God,  help  me  in  this  great  concern, 
that  I  may  never  fall  under  Thy  wrath  for  want  of 
showing  mercy  to  others  ;  but  grant,  O  blessed  Jesus, 
that  in  this  I  may  be  Thy  disciple  indeed.     Amen. 

SLANDER. 

"  The  Son  of  Man  came  eating  and  drinking, 
and  they  say.  Behold  a  man  gluttonous  and  a  wine- 
bibber,  a  friend  of  publicans  and  sinners." — Mat- 
thew xi.  19. 

Whatever  measure  a  good  man  takes,  he  will 
hardly  escape  the  censures  of  the  woild ;  the  best 
way  is,  not  to  be  concerned  at  them. 

It  is  an  instance  of  humility  silently  to  bear  the 
calumnies  which  are  raised  against  us,  when  they 
relate  to  ourselves  only  ;  but  it  is  a  duty  of  prudence 
and  charity  modestly  to  vindicate  ourselves,  when 
the  honour  of  God  and  the  Church  is  concerned. 

Both  Jesus  Christ  and  John  the  Baptist  were  slan- 
dered ;  who  then  will  complain  that  they  cannot 
satisfy  the  world,  and  stop  men's  mouths  ?* 

"  Deliver  my  soul,  O  Lord,  from  lying  lips,  and 
from  a  deceitful  tongue." — Psalm  cxx.  2. 

*  Luke  vi.  33,  34. 
O — O 


0 o 

260  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

UNCHARITABLENESS. 

Envy  makes  us  see  what  will  serve  to  accuse 
others,  and  not  perceive  what  may  justify  them.* 

A  truly  good  man  is  always  disposed  to  excuse 
what  is  evil  in  his  brethren,  as  far  as  truth  will  suffer 
him. 

ALMS. 

"  Though  I  bestow  all  my  goods  to  feed  the  poor, 
and  have  not  charity,  it  profiteth  me  nothing." — 1 
Cor.  xiii.  3. 

If  external  acts  of  charity  do  not  proceed  from 
charity,  that  is,  from  a  love  of  God,  and  of  our 
neighbour  for  his  sake,  they  are  as  nothing  in  the 
sight  of  God,  My  God,  pour  into  my  heart  this  most 
excellent  gift,  the  very  bond  of  peace  and  of  all 
virtue. 

The  Apostles  and  their  successors  are  the  proper 
trustees  for  the  charity  of  Christ. 

"  Let  us  do  good  unto  all  men." — Galatians  vi.  10. 

He  who  seeks  for  Jesus  Christ  in  the  poor,  in 
order  to  relieve  and  assist  him,  will  not  be  too  soli- 
citous to  find  any  other  merit  in  them  than  that  of 
Jesus  Christ. 

For  our  earthly  things,  O  Lord,  give  us  heavenly  : 
for  temporal,  eternal. 

'*  He  that  hath  two  coats,  let  him  impart  to  him 
that  hath  none." — Luke  iii.  H. 

*  Matthew  xii,  3 

— o 


o    -  — -  -        — -—- — ^ o 

I 

THURSDAY    MEDITATIONS.  261 

That  is,  let  him  that  hath  plenty — to  spare,  of 
any  thing  necessary  for  life,  let  him  give  to  him  that 
wants. 

The  proportion  of  charity,  appointed  by  God  him- 
self to  His  own  people  for  the  relief  of  the  poor,  was 
every  year  a  thirtieth  part  of  all  their  incomes,  or  a 
tenth  every  third  year  ;  to  be  laid  up  every  third 
year  as  a  fund  for  charitable  uses.* 

This  was  the  Jew's  proportion.  He  that  came 
short  of  this  was  a  breaker  of  the  law,  and  without 
repentance  and  restitution,  had  no  hopes  of  pardon. 

The  Christian's  proportion  ought  to  be  greater, 
as  his  hopes  and  rewards  will  be  greater. 

"  Whosoever  shall  give  a  cup  of  cold  water  in 
the  name  of  a  disciple,  verily  I  say  unto  you,  he  shall 
in  no  wise  lose  his  reward." — Matthew  x.  42. 

We  should,  in  all  our  charities,  direct  our  eye 
towards  Christ  in  His  members  ;  it  is  this  which 
heightens  the  smallest  mfts.  Men  reward  what  is 
done  on  human  motives ;  God  such  as  are  done  for 
His  sake. 

The  more  a  man  gives  to  the  poor,  the  more  he 
receives  from  God.  The  increase  is  like  that  of  the 
five  loaves  and  two  fishes,  which  produced  twelve 
baskets  of  fragments,  after  five  thousand  were  filled. 

He  that  for  his  good  actions  expects  the  applause 
of  men,  runs  the  hazard  of  losing  the  reward  of  God. 

"  Whoso  shall  receive  one  such  little  child  in  My 
name,  receiveth  Me." — Matt,  xviii.  5. 

Jesus  Christ   is  received  in  the  persons  of  the 

*  Deuteronomy  xxvi.  12,  13. 

0 


o 

262  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

poor.  These  must  be  received  not  out  of  human 
respects,  nor  ostentation,  nor  for  our  own  satisfaction, 
but  in  the  name  and  for  the  sake  of  Christ.  This 
renders  our  hospitality  truly  Christian. 

The  poor  are,  as  it  were,  the  receivers  of  the 
rights  and  dues  belonging  to  God  ;  we  must  have  a 
care  of  defrauding  them. 

"  A  good  (a  charitable)  man  will  guide  his  affairs 
with  discretion." — Psalm  cxii.  5.  That  is,  he  will 
cut  off,  and  retrench  all  needless  expenses  in  apparel, 
diet,  diversions,  &/C.,  that  he  may  give  to  him  that 
needeth. 

In  alms  and  charity  to  the  poor,  and  good  works, 
a  good  Christian  will  always  endeavour  to  be  better 
than  he  appears  to  the  world  to  be,  that  thine  alms 
may  be  in  secret  as  much  as  may  be. 


CHARITY  ;     OR,    THE    LOVE    OP    GOD    AND    OUR 
NEIGHBOUR. 

It  is  but  the  first  essay  of  charity  to  give  alms. 

Whoever  shows  mercy  to  men  will  certainly  re- 
ceive mercy  from  God. 

"  Whosoever  hateth  his  brother  is  a  murderer." — 
1  John  iii.  15. 

A  man  has  already  killed  him  in  his  heart,  whose 
life  is  grievous  to  him,  and  at  whose  death  he  would 
rejoice. 

"  He  that  loveth  not  his  brother,  abideth  in 
death." — I  John  iii.  14. 


o o 

THURSDAY    MEDITATIONS.  263 

Can  we  believe  that  it  is  God  that  saith  this,  and 
delay  one  moment  to  be  reconciled  ? 

"  And  hereby  (that  is,  by  a  true  charity)  we 
shall  assure  our  hearts  before  him." — 1  John  iii.  19. 
Namely,  at  His  coming,  when  His  sentence  will  be 
founded  upon  the  exercise  or  omission  of  this  duty. 

It  is  not  enoucrh  to  love  our  brethren  :  we  must 
love  them  upon  a  principle  of  faith,  in  the  name,  for 
the  sake,  and  as  members  of  Jesus  Christ. 

Give  me,  O  my  God,  a  heart  full  of  Christian 
meekness  and  charity,  that  I  may  willingly  forgive 
the  evil  I  have  received,  and  be  always  disposed  to 
do  good  to  others. 

We  love  our  neiorhbour  after  a  Christian  manner, 
when  we  love  him  for  God's  sake,  and  for  God's  sake 
do  him  good. 

HOSPITALITY. 

Hospitality  does  not  consist  in  keeping  a  plentiful 
table,  and  making  great  entertainments  ;  but  in  pro- 
vidinop  a  sober  and  suitable  refreshment  for  such  as 
are  in  want,  and  for  such  as  come  to  visit  us. 


O O 


PRIDAI   MEDITATIONS 


PENITENCE. 


"  The  publican  standing  afar  off,  would  not  so 
much  as  lift  up  his  eyes  to  Heaven  ;  but  smote  upon 
his  breast,  saying,  God  be  merciful  to  me  a  sinner." 
— Luke  xviii.  13. 

What  would  become  of  me,  if  Thou,  O  God, 
shouldst  not  have  mercy  upon  me  ? 

When  I  seriously  consider  these  dreadful  truths, 
— "  That  all  they  are  accursed  who  do  err  and  go 
astray  from  Thy  commandments,"* — *'  That  the  un- 
profitable servant  was  cast  into  outer  darkness  :" — f 
When  I  think  of  these  things,  I  cannot  but  fear  for 
myself,  and  tremble  to  think  of  the  account  I  have  to 
give. 

"  To  this  man  will  I  look,  even  to  him  that  is 
poor  and  of  a  contrite  spirit,  and  trembleth  at  My 
word." — Isaiah  Ixvi.  52. 

*  Psalm  cxix.  21  f  ^^a"*  xxv.  30. 


-6 


o o 

FRIDAY    MEDITATIONS.  265 

"  The  Lord  is  nigh  unto  them  that  are  of  a  con- 
trite heart ;  and  will  save  such  as  be  of  a  humble 
spirit." — Psalm  xxxiv.  18. 

Look  upon  me,  gracious  Lord,  with  an  eye  of 
mercy. 

"  For  Thy  name's  sake,  O  Lord,  pardon  my 
iniquities,  for  they  are  great." — Psalm  xxv.  2. 

My  only  comfort  is,  they  are  not  too  great  for 
Thy  mercy. 

And  the  Lord  Jesus  our  Advocate  has  assured 
us,  even  with  an  oath,  that  all  sins  shall  be  forgiven 
unto  the  sons  of  men.*  That  is,  if  with  hearty  re- 
pentance and  true  faith  they  turn  unto  God. 

O  most  powerful  Advocate  !  I  put  my  cause  into 
Thy  hands ;  let  it  be  unto  Thy  servant  according  to 
this  word ;  let  Thy  blood  and  merits  plead  for  my 
pardon  ;  say  unto  me,  as  Thou  didst  unto  the  peni- 
tent in  Thy  Gospel,  Thy  sins  are  forgiven.  And 
grant  that  I  may  live  to  bring  forth  fruits  meet  for 
repentance. 

"  If  ye  forgive  men  their  trespasses,  your  heavenly 
Father  will  also  forgive  your  trespasses." — Matthew 
vi.  14. 

Even  the  power  to  perform  this  most  kind  con- 
dition, must  be  from  Thy  grace,  O  Jesus  ! 

And  I  trust  Thou  wilt  grant  me  this  grace,  be- 
cause the  very  will  to  ask  it  is  from  Thee,  and  from 
Thy  will,  which  wills  nothing  in  vain. 

Perfect,  therefore,  O  my  Saviour,  the  work  which 
Thou  hast  begun  in  me  ;  and  let  me  feel  the  effects 

*  Markiii.  22. 
12 


O : O 

266  SACRA    PRTVATA. 

of  Thy  grace  in  the  constancy  of  my  devotions, — in 
the  care  for  my  soul, — in  the  faithful  discharge  of 
my  duty,  and  in  all  such  acts  of  righteousness,  piety, 
and  charity,  by  which  I  shall  be  judged  at  the  last 
day. 

"  Sin  no  more,  lest  a  worse  thing  come  unto 
thee." — John  v.  14. 

Make  me,  O  Lord,  ever  mindful  of  my  infirmities 
and  backslidings,  that  I  may  be  more  watchful,  and 
more  importunate  for  grace  for  the  time  to  come, 

"  Blessed  are  the  merciful,  for  they  shall  obtain 
mercy." — Matthew  v.  7. 

Give  me,  O  Lord,  a  true  compassion  for  the 
wants  and  miseries  of  others,  that  Thou  mayest  have 
compassion  upon  me. 

"  For  there  is  joy  in  the  presence  of  God  over 
one  sinner  that  repenteth." — Luke  xv.  10. 

Lord,  increase  the  number  of  penitents,  and  the 
joys  of  heaven,  in  delivering  myself  and  all  sinners 
from  the  power  of  the  devil,  and  in  vouchsafing  us 
the  grace  of  a  true  conversion, 

'*  Blessed  are  they  that  mourn,  for  they  shall  be 
comforted." — Matthew  v,  4, 

O,  Lord,  grant  that  I  may  seek  for  comfort,  not 
in  the  things  of  this  world,  but  by  a  sincere  repent- 
ance for  my  sins,  by  which  God  is  dishonoured,  and 
his  judgments  hanging  over  my  head, 

"  The  Son  of  man  is  come  to  seek  and  to  save 
that  which  was  lost." — Luke  xix.  10. 

O  comfortable  words  for  lost  sinners  !  God  himself 
seeks  to  save  them.     O  Thou,  who  sought  me  when 

O O 


o 

FRIDAY    MEDITATIONS.  267 

I  was   astray,  save  me  for  Thy  mercy's   sake,   and^ 
preserve  that  which  Thou  hast  sought  and  found. 

"  Come  unto  me,  all  ye  that  labour  and  are  heavy 
laden,  and  I  vi^ill  give  you  rest." — Matthew  xi.  28. 

O  Jesu,  conduct  and  keep  me  to  Thyself,  or  I 
shall  surely  miss  the  way. 

"  Work  out  your  own  salvation  with  fear  and 
trembling ;  for  it  is  God  that  worketh  in  you  both  to 
will  and  to  do  of  His  good  pleasure." — Phil.  ii.  12. 

It  was  not  in  myself,  O  God,  to  begin  the  work 
of  my  conversion  ; — finish,  I  beseech  Thee,  what 
Thou  hast  begun  in  me  ; — may  I  close  with  Thy 
grace,  and  persevere  unto  my  life's  end. 

"  God  retaineth  not  his  anger  for  ever,  because 
He  delighteth  in  mercy." — Micah  vii.  18. 

"  O  Lord  God,  behold  we  are  before  Thee  in  our 
trespasses  ;  we  cannot  stand  before  Thee  for  this." — 
Ezra  ix.  15. 

"  Pardon,  I  beseech  Thee,  the  iniquity  of  Thy 
servant,  according  to  the  greatness  of  Thy  mercy." 
— Numbers  xiv.  19. 

O  say  unto  me  as  Thou  didst  unto  Moses,  "  I 
have  pardoned  thee." 

"  All  his  iniquities  that  he  hath  committed,  they 
shall  not  be  mentioned  unto  him." — Ezekiel  xviii.  22. 

Lord,  be  merciful  unto  us,  for  we  have  sinned  in 
the  midst  of  light,  and  even  against  light ;  in  con- 
tempt of  the  grace  we  received  at  our  baptism. 

"  If  we  confess  our  sins,  God  is  faithful  and  just 
to  forgive  us  our  sins,  and  to  cleanse  us  from  all  un- 
righteousness."— 1  John  i.  9. 

O ^ O 


o o 

268  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

These  are  comfortable  words  to  one  whom  the 
sight  of  his  sins  has  cast  into  a  dread  of  the  judg- 
ments of  God.  Both  that  dread,  and  the  hatred  of 
sin,  and  the  dependence  upon  the  promise  of  God, 
and  the  love  that  that  produces  in  the  soul,  are  owing 
entirely  to  the  blood  of  Jesus  Christ. 

*'  What  is  Thy  servant,  that  Thou  shouldst  look 
upon  such  a  dead  dog  as  I  am  V — 2  Samuel  ix.  8. 

My  only  support  is,  that  my  sins  have  not  put  me 
out  of  the  reach  of  that  mercy  which  is  infinite. 

Who  can  understand  his  errors  1  O  cleanse  thou 
me  from  my  secret  faults. 

O  Lord,  be  favourable  unto  me ;  pardon  and  de- 
liver me  from  all  my  sins. 

Grant  that  my  sins  may  never  rise  up  in  judg- 
ment against  me,  nor  bring  shame  and  confusion  of 
face  upon  me. 

My  soul  truly  waiteth  still  upon  God,  for  of  him 
Cometh  my  salvation. 

"  It  is  I,  be  not  afraid." — John  vi.  20. 

Lord  Jesus,  in  all  the  troubles  that  shall  befall 
me,  speak  these  comfortable  words  to  my  soul.  It  is 
I,  be  not  afraid ;  and  then  I  shall  be  secure,  both 
from  presumption  and  despair. 

"  If  ye  believe  not  that  I  am  he,  (that  is,  the 
Messiah,  the  Son  of  God,)  ye  shall  die  in  your  sins." 
— John  viii.  24. 

O  Jesus,  the  only  refuge  of  sinners,  does  the 
world  know  what  it  is  to  die  in  sin  ?  I  believe  ;  Lord, 
increase  my  faith,  and  deliver  us  all  from  the  dread- 
ful state  of  final  impenitency. 

O O 


o — — 

FRIDAY    MEDITATIONS.  269 

"  If  ye  continue  in  My  word,  then  are  ye  My  dis- 
ciples indeed." — John  viii.  31. 

May  I,  O  Jesus,  love  the  truths  of  Thy  word  ; 
make  the  Gospel  my  delight ;  and  continue  in  the 
practice  of  them  to  my  life's  end. 

*'  If  a  man  keep  my  saying,  he  shall  never  see 
death." — John  viii.  51. 

0  Jesus,  Thou  hast  made  known  to  us  another 
death,  besides  that  which  separates  the  soul  from  the 
body.  O  may  Thy  grace  and  mercy  secure  us  from 
the  bitter  pains  of  eternal  death. 

'*  Say  the  word,  and  my  servant  shall  be  healed." 
— Luke  vii.  7. 

1  acknowledge,  O  Jesu,  the  almighty  power  of 
Thy  grace,  to  heal  all  the  disorders  of  my  soul ;  O 
deal  with  me  according  to  the  multitude  of  Thy  mer- 
cies, and  heal  my  soul  of  its  sad  disorders. 

"  God  is  a  Spirit :  and  they  that  worship  Him 
must  worship  Him  in  spirit  and  in  truth." — John 
iii.  24. 

Give  me,  O  Jesus,  an  inward  disposition  to  holi- 
ness, an  humble  and  contrite  heart,  a  dependence  on 
the  will  of  God,  and  acknowledcrment  of  His  orood- 
ness,  and  a  zeal  for  His  glory  ;  to  which  all  the  ordi- 
nances of  the  law  and  gospel  should  lead  us. 


GOOD    USE    OF    TIME- 

Grant,  O  Lord,  that  as  I  hive  but  a  short  time  to 
live,   and  an  eternal  interest  depending,   1  may  not 

a O 


o o 

270  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

squander  away  one  moment  in  vanity,  or  in  that 
which  will  not  profit  me  in  the  day  of  adversity. 

"  Blindness  in  part  is  happened  to  Israel,  until 
the  fulness  of  the  Gentiles  be  come  in,  and  so  all 
Israel  shall  be  saved." — Romans  xi.  16. 

O  God,  the  God  of  Abraham,  look  upon  thine 
everlasting  covenant  ;*  cause  the  captivity  of  Judah 
and  of  Israel  to  return.  They  were  Thy  people  ; 
O  be  Thou  their  Saviour  !  and  may  all  who  love 
Jerusalem  and  mourn  for  her,  rejoice  with  her,t  for 
Jesus  Christ's  sake,  their  Saviour  and  ours. 

IN    TIME    OF    PUBLIC    DISTRACTIONS. 

O  sovereign  Lord !  I  prostrate  myself  before 
Thee,  confessing  my  own  sin,  and  acknowledging 
the  justice  of  any  scourge  which  Thou  shalt  bring 
upon  us ;  and  trembling  to  think  how  much  I  may 
have  contributed  towards  it ;  beseeching  Thee  to 
have  compassion  on  us,  in  these  days  of  confusion. 

O  Lord,  prevent  the  judgments  that  threaten  us ; 
purge  this  nation  from  all  such  crimes  as  may  be  the 
cause  of  Thy  heavy  displeasure  against  us — from 
whoredom  and  drunkenness  ;  from  swearing,  lying, 
and  perjury  ;  from  sacrilege,  injustice,  fraud,  disobe- 
dience, malice,  and  uncharitableness.  Take  from 
among  us  the  spirit  of  atheism,  irreligion,  and  pro- 
faneness ;  and  in  mercy  rebuke  and  convert  all  such 
as  give  encouragement  or  countenance  to  any  of 
these  vices,  which  may  provoke  Thee  to  give  us  up 

*  Genesis  xvii.  7.  t  Isaiah  Ixvi.  11. 

o 


-o 


FRIDAY    MEDITATIONS.  271 

to  infidelity  or  destruction.  O  let  Thine  anger  be 
turned  away  from  us ;  give  us  not  over  unto  the  w^ill 
of  our  adversaries,  and  unto  such  as  strive  to  bring 
all  thino;s  into  confusion.  Preserve  this  church  in 
the  midst  of  all  dangers ;  and  restore  unto  us  peace 
and  unity  ;  and  grant  us  grace  to  make  a  better  use 
of  these  blessings,  for  the  time  to  come,  for  Jesus 
Christ's  sake.     Amen. 

We  complain  of  oppression,  of  our  laws  being 
perverted  and  trampled  upon  ;  of  arbitrary  govern- 
ment, &LC.  Let  us  not  be  wiser  than  God,  Who 
judges  these  things  to  be  necessary — to  exercise  the 
good — to  punish  the  wicked — to  reclaim  the  sinner 
— to  recover  those  that  are  going  astray,  to  make  all 
serious.  Let  us  not  impeach  the  ways  of  Providence, 
Who  brings  good  out  of  evil ;  but  reverence  and 
submit  to  His  will.  His  wisdom,  and  justice. 

"  For  the  transgression  of  a  land,  many  are  the 
princes  thereof" — Proverbs  xxviii.  2 — that  is,  it  is 
punished  with  a  confused  government. 

"  Ye  that  are  the  Lord'sj.emembrancers,  keep  not 
silence  ;  give  Him  no  rest  till  He  establish,  and  till 
He  make  Jerusalem  (His  Church)  a  praise  in  the 
earth." — Isaiah  Ixii.  6. 

"  Thy  kingdom  come." — Though  we  are  alto- 
gether unworthy  of  the  good  times  thou  hast  pro- 
mised Thy  church,  yet  be  beseech  Thee  deprive  us 
not  of  them. 

O  Lord,  hear  ;  O  Lord,  forgive  ;  O  Lord,  hearken, 
and  do  not  defer  these  good  days,  for  Thine  own 
sake,  oh  !  our  God. 


o o 

272  SACllA    PRIVATA. 

We  hope  a  day  is  coming  when  all  the  world  will 
come  and  worship  Thee,  O  God. 

See  Jeremiah  xxxi. — The  whole  chapter. 


SCRIPTURE    EXAMPLES. 

"  Persecuted  for  righteousness'  sake." — Such  the 
Lord  never  forsakes. 

*'  But  the  Lord  was  with  Joseph,  and  showed  him 
mercy,  and  gave  him  favour  in  the  sight  of  the  keeper 
of  the  prison." — Genesis  xxxix.  21. 

Christ's  patience. 

What  sorrows  did  He  undergo,  and  with  what 
patience  did  He  suffer  them  !  Patient  when  Judas 
unworthily  betrayed  Him  with  a  kiss  ;  patient  when 
Caiaphas  despitefully  used  Him ;  patient  when  hur- 
ried from  one  place  to  another  ;  patient  when  Herod 
with  his  men  of  war  s^t  Him  at  nought ;  patient 
when  Pilate  so  unrighteously  condemned  Him  ; 
patient  when  scourged  and  crowned  with  thorns  ; 
patient  when  His  cross  was  laid  upon  Him,  when  He 
was  reviled,  reproached,  scoffed  at,  and  every  way 
abused.  Lord  Jesus,  grant  me  patience,  after  this 
example,  to  bear  Thy  Holy  will  in  all  things. 

Christ's  love  and  charity. 

Where  shall  we  take  our  pattern  but  from  Thee  ? 
Thou  callest  Thy  followers  Thy  friends.     Thou  didst 


-o 


FRIDAY    MEDITATIONS. 


273 


stoop  down  to  wash  their  feet  who  were  not  worthy 
to  untie  Thy  shoe.  Thou  didst  forgive  and  restore 
Peter,  when  he  had  abjured  Thee.  Thou  didst 
vouchsafe  to  satisfy  Thomas,  who  would  not  believe 
but  upon  his  own  terms.  Thou  didst  forgive  and 
pray  for  Thy  bloody  persecutors.  O  Thou  fountain 
and  pattern  of  love,  grant  that  I  may  love  Thee  above 
all  things,  and  my  neighbour  as  myself. 


O- 


12* 


-6 


o 


-o 


SATURDAY  MEBITATIOIS 

PREPARATION  FOR  DEATH. 


"  O  THAT  they  were  wise,  that  they  would  con- 
sider their  latter  end  !" — Deut.  xxxii.  29. 

"  The  night  cometh,  when  no  man  can  work." — 
John  ix,  4. 

A  very  gracious  intimation.  Lord,  grant  that  I 
may  never  forget  it ;  and  that  now,  now,  is  the  time 
in  which  to  provide  for  eternity. 

What  a  wise  man  then,  when  he  comes  to  die, 
would  wish  he  had  done,  that  he  ought  to  do  forth- 
with, for  death  is  at  hand,  and  the  consequences  of 
a  surprise  most  dreadful.  He  will  then  wish,  if  he 
has  not  done  it,  with  all  his  soul, — 

1st.  That  he  had  made  a  just  and  Christian  set- 
tlement of  his  worldly  concerns ;  so  as  not  to  be  dis- 
tracted with  the  cares  of  this  world,  when  all  his 
thoughts  should  be  upon  another. 

2ndly.  That  he  had  made  his  peace  with  God  by 
a  timely  repentance. 

3dly.  That  he  had  faithfully  discharged  the  duties 
of  his  callinof. 


O- 


-6 


Q Q 

SATURDAY   MEDITATIONS.  275 

4thly.  That  he  had  weaned  his  affections  from 
things  temporal,  and  loosened  the  ties  which  fasten 
us  to  the  world. 

5thly.  That  he  had  crucified  the  flesh  with  its 
affections  and  lusts;  so  that  being  weary  of  this  life, 
he  might  be  more  desirous  of  a  better. 

6thly.  That  by  acts  of  justice,  mercy,  charity, 
and  alms,  he  may  be  entitled  to  the  mercy  of  God  at 
the  hour  of  death. 

Tthly.  That  he  had  got  such  habits  of  patience 
and  resignation  to  the  will  of  God,  during  his  health, 
as  may  render  death,  with  all  the  train  of  miseries 
leading  to  it,  less  frightful  and  amazing. 

Sthly  and  lastly.  That  by  a  constant  practice 
of  devotion  preparatory  for  death,  he  had  learned 
what  to  pray  for,  what  to  hope  for,  what  to  depend 
on,  in  his  last  sickness. 

And  this,  gracious  Lord,  is  what  I  wish  for,  what 
I  pray  for,  and  what  I  purpose  shall  be  the  constant 
practice  of  my  life.     Amen. 

"  Set  thy  house  in  order,  for  thou  shalt  die,  and 
not  live." — 2  Kino-s  xx.  1. 

May  God,  who  has  every  way  provided  for  me, 
and  put  it  into  my  power  to  be  just  to  all  men,  chari- 
table to  the  poor,  grateful  to  my  friends,  kind  to  my 
servants,  and  a  benefactor  to  the  public  :  may  He 
add  this  to  all  His  favours,  and  grant  that  in  making 
my  last  will,  I  may  faithfully  discharge  all  these  en- 
gagements ;  and  that  for  want  of  that,  no  curse 
may  cleave  to  myself,  or  to  any  thing  I  shall  leave 
behind  me.     Amen. 

o 6 


Q 

276  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

But,  above  all  things,  I  beg  of  Thee,  O  God,  to 
enable  me  to  set  my  inward  house,  my  soul,  in  order, 
before  I  die. 

Give  me  true  repentance  for  all  the  errors  of  my 
life  past,  and  steadfast  faith  in  Thy  Son  Jesus  Christ  ; 
that  my  sins  may  be  done  away  by  Thy  mercy,  and 
my  pardon  sealed  in  heaven. 

"  Whoso  confesseth  and  forsaketh  his  sin,  shall 
have  mercy." — Proverbs  xxviii.  13. 

Behold,  O  God,  a  creature,  liable  every  moment 
to  death,  prostrate  before  Thee,  begging,  for  Jesus 
Christ's  sake,  that  faith  and  repentance  to  which 
Thou  hast  promised  mercy  and  pardon. 

Discover  to  me,  O  Thou  searcher  of  hearts,  the 
charge  that  is  against  me,  that  I  may  know,  and 
confess,  and  bewail,  and  abhor,  and  forsake,  and 
repent  of  all  the  evils  I  have  been  guilty  of. 

Have  mercy  upon  me,  have  mercy  upon  me,  most 
merciful  Father,  who  desirest  not  the  death  of  a  sin- 
ner ;  for  Thy  Son  Jesus  Christ's  sake,  forgive  me  all 
that  is  past. 

And,  O  blessed  Advocate,  Who  art  able  to  save 
them  for  ever  who  come  unto  God  by  Thee,  seeing 
Thou  ever  livest  to  make  intercession  for  us,  I  put 
my  cause  into  Thy  hands  ;  let  Thy  power  defend 
Thee  ;  Thy  blood  and  merits  plead  for  me ;  supply 
all  the  defects  of  my  repentance  ;  procure  for  me  a 
full  discharge  of  all  my  sins  before  I  die  ;  and  by 
Thy  mighty  grace  confirm  and  strengthen  me  in  all 
goodness,  during  the  remainder  of  my  life,  that  my 


-O 


c- o 

SATURDAY    MEDITATIONS.  277 

death  may  be  a  blessing  to  me,  and  that  I  may  find 
mercy  at  the  great  day.     Amen. 

"  Put  on  the  new  man,  which  after  God  is  created 
in  righteousness  and  true  holiness." — Ephesians 
iv.  24. 

This,  O  God,  is  what  I  desire  and  purpose,  by 
Thy  grace,  to  do ;  and  do  again  renew  the  vows 
which  I  have  so  often  made,  and  too  often  broke, 

I  renounce  the  devil  and  all  his  works ;  the  vain 
pomp  and  glory  of  the  world,  with  all  covetous  desires 
of  the  same,  and  the  carnal  desires  of  the  flesh ;  re- 
solving, by  Thy  grace,  neither  to  follow  nor  be  led 
by  them. 

I  desire,  and  purpose,  to  redeem  my  misspent 
time. 

And,  O  God,  assist  me,  that  neither  sloth  nor 
corruption  may  ever  make  me  lay  aside  or  forget 
these  resolutions ;  but  that  I  may  live  to  Thee ;  be 
an  instrument  of  Thy  glory,  by  serving  Thee  faith- 
fully, and  by  doing  good  in  my  generation  ;  and  that 
I  may  be  found  so  doing  when  Thou  art  pleased  to 
call  me  hence,  for  Jesus  Christ's  sake.     Amen. 

"  Set  your  affections  on  things  above,  not  on 
things  on  the  earth." — Colossians  iii.  2. 

And  may  Almighty  God,  who  alone  can  do  it, 
effectually  convince  me  of  the  vanity  of  all  that  is 
desirable  in  this  present  life,  that  I  may  not,  like  an 
unbeliever,  look  for  happiness  here. 

Give  me,  O  Lord,  a  perfect  indifference  for  the 
world,  its  profits,  pleasures,  honours,  fame,  and  all 
its  idols. 

(y (^ 


o o 

278  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

Represent  Thyself  unto  me  as  my  true  happi- 
ness, that  I  may  love  Thee  with  all  my  heart,  and 
soul,  and  strength  ;  so  that  when  I  am  called  out  of 
this  world,  I  may  rejoice  in  hope  of  going  to  the 
paradise  of  God,  where  the  souls  of  the  faithful 
enjoy  rest  and  felicity,  in  hopes  of  a  blessed  resur- 
rection, through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 

"  If  any  man  will  come  after  me,  let  him  deny 
himself,  and  take  up  his  cross  daily,  and  follow  me.'' 
— Luke  ix.  23. 

Blessed  Jesus,  who  pleased  not  Thyself,  but  took- 
est  upon  Thee  the  form  of  a  servant,  to  teach  man- 
kind the  great  duty  and  blessings  of  self-denial ; 
assist  me  to  follow  Thy  commands  and  Thy  holy  ex- 
ample, though  I  should  be  obliged  to  lose  any  thing, 
as  dear  as  a  right  hand  or  a  right  eye. 

Give  me  resolution  to  deny  my  inclinations  for 
the  good  things  of  this  world,  even  while  I  may  com- 
mand them  ;  to  subdue  my  corrupt  affections,  and  to 
take  revenge  upon  myself — for  my  intemperance,  by 
mortification ;  for  misspending  my  time,  by  retire- 
ment ;  for  the  errors  of  my  tongue,  by  silence ;  and 
for  all  the  sins  of  my  life,  by  a  deep  humiliation, 
patiently  submitting  to  all  the  troubles  with  which 
Thou  shalt  think  fit  to  exercise  or  punish  me  ;  so 
that  being  effectually  weaned  from  this  world,  and 
weary  of  its  corruptions,  I  may  long  to  repose  my- 
self in  the  grave,  in  hopes  of  a  better  life,  through 
Thy  mercy  and  merits,  O  Lord  Jesus  Christ.    Amen. 

"  Charity  covereth  the  multitude  of  sins." — 1 
Peter  iv.  8. 

O O 


o— ■ o 

I 

SATURDAY    MEDITATIONS.  279 

Possess  my  soul,  O  God,  with  a  sincere  love  for 
Thee,  and  for  all  mankind. 

Let  no  malice  or  ill-will  abide  in  me.  Give  me 
grace  to  forgive  all  that  have  offended  me  ;  and  for- 
give my  many  offences  against  Thee,  and  against 
my  neighbour. 

Make  me  ever  ready  to  give,  and  glad  to  dis- 
tribute, that  Thy  gifts,  passing  through  my  hands, 
may  procure  for  me  the  prayers  of  the  poor  ;  and 
that  I  may  lay  up  in  store  for  myself  a  good  founda- 
tion against  the  time  to  come,  that  I  may  attain  eter- 
nal life,  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 

THY    WILL     BE    DONE. 

Fortify  my  soul,  blessed  Jesus,  with  the  same 
spirit  of  submission  with  which  Thou  underwentest 
the  death  of  the  cross,  that  I  may  receive  all  events 
with  resignation  to  the  will  of  God  ;  that  I  may  re- 
ceive troubles,  afflictions,  disappointments,  sickness, 
and  death  itself,  without  amazement ;  these  being 
the  appointment  of  Thy  justice  for  the  punishment  of 
sin,  and  of  Thy  mercy  for  the  salvation  of  sinners. 

Let  this  be  the  constant  practice  of  my  life,  to 
be  pleased  with  all  Thy  choices,  that  when  sickness 
and  death  approach,  I  may  be  prepared  to  submit  my 
will  to  the  will  of  my  Maker. 

And  O  that,  in  the  mean  time,  my  heart  may 
always  go  along  with  my  lips  in  this  petition, — "  Thy 
will  be  done."     Amen. 

"  It  is  appointed  unto  men  once  to  die  ;  but  after 
this  the  judgment." — Hebrews  ix.  27. 

O — — O 


o o 

280  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

May  the  thoughts  of  death,  and  of  what  must  fol- 
low, by  the  grace  of  God,  mortify  in  me  all  carnal 
security,  and  fondness  for  this  world,  and  all  that  is 
in  it,  the  lust  of  the  flesh,  the  lust  of  the  eye,  and 
the  pride  of  life.  And  O  that  I  may  make  my  call- 
ing and  election  sure,  that  I  may  die  in  peace,  and 
rest  in  the  mansions  of  glory,  in  hopes  of  a  blessed 
resurrection,  and  a  favourable  judgment  at  the  great 
day. 

And  may  the  consideration  of  a  judgment  to  come 
oblige  me  to  examine,  to  try,  and  to  judge  myself, 
that  I  may  prevent  a  severe  judgment  of  God,  by  a 
true  repentance,  and  lead  a  life  answerable  to  amend- 
ment of  life,  and  that  I  may  find  mercy  at  the  great 
day. 

''  All  that  are  in  the  orraves  shall  hear  His  voice, 
and  come  forth  ;  they  that  have  done  good,  unto  the 
resurrection  of  life ;  and  they  that  have  done  evil, 
unto  the  resurrection  of  damnation." — John  v.  28. 

May  that  dreadful  word  oblige  me  to  work  out 
my  salvation  with  fear  and  trembling,  that  through 
the  merits  of  Jesus  Christ,  I  may  escape  that  dread- 
ful doom. 

And  may  the  hopes  of  heaven  and  happiness 
sweeten  all  the  troubles  of  this  mortal  life. 

O  Lord  Jesus,  who  hast  redeemed  us  with  Thy 
precious  blood,  make  me  to  be  numbered  with  Thy 
saints  in  glory  everlasting.     Amen. 

0  let  my  name  be  found  written  in  the  Lamb's 
book  of  life  at  the  great  day. 

1  thank  Thee,  O  Lord,  for  all  the  favours  of  my 
0 _ 


o 

SATURDAY    MEDITATIONS.  281 

life,  and  especially  for  that  Thou  hast  vouchsafed  me 
time  and  a  will  to  think  of  and  prepare  for  death, 
while  I  am  in  my  full  strength,  while  I  may  redeem 
my  misspent  time,  and  bring  forth  fruits  meet  for 
repentance. 

Let  us  consider  death  as  a  punishment,  to  which, 
as  sinners,  we  are  justly  condemned. 

But  then  let  us  look  on  it  in  another  view,  namely, 
as  a  sacrifice  for  sin,  which  God  will  mercifully 
accept  of,  in  union  with  that  of  His  Son,  if  we  sub- 
mit to  it  as  due  to  our  offences. 

It  being  a  sacrifice,  it  ought  to  be  voluntary ; 
beinor  a  debt,  it  ought  to  be  made  out  of  love  to  ius- 
tice  ;  and  being  a  satisfaction,  we  must  be  humbly 
resigned. 

My  God,  I  humbly  submit  to  it,  and  to  Thy  jus- 
tice ;  and  trust  to  Thy  mercy  and  goodness  and  pro- 
mises, both  now  and  at  the  hour  of  death. 

Death  is  inevitable ;  the  time  uncertain ;  the 
judgment  which  follows  without  appeal ;  and  followed 
by  an  eternity  of  happiness  or  misery. 

Lord,  grant  that  I  may  consider  this  as  I  ought 
to  do. 

Let  me  remember,  that  I  shall  come  forth  out  of 
the  grave,  just  as  I  go  in ;  either  the  object  of  God's 
mercy,  or  of  His  wrath,  to  all  eternity. 

He  lives  to  no  purpose,  who  is  not  glorifying  God. 

Our  greatest  hopes  should  lie  beyond  the  grave. 

No  man  must  go  to  heaven  when  he  dies,  who 
has  not  sent  his  heart  thither  while  he  lives. 

Our  greatest  security  is  to  be  derived  from  duty, 


o— o 

282  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

and  our  only  confidence  from  the  mercy  of  God 
throuorh  Jesus  Christ. 

Sickness,  if  you  consider  it  as  painful  to  nature, 
and  not  as  a  favour  from  God,  will  be  a  torment  to 
you.  To  make  it  really  comfortable,  believe  it  to 
be  ordered  by  a  loving  Father,  a  wise  Physician  ; 
that  it  is  the  eifect  of  His  mercy  for  our  salvation  : 
that  being  fastened  to  the  cross,  you  become  dearer 
to  God,  as  being  most  like  His  own  Son.  God  will 
loose  you  when  it  is  best  for  you. 

We  often  hinder  our  recovery  by  trusting  to  phy- 
sic more  than  to  God  :  means  succeed  just  as  far  as 
God  pleases  ;  if  He  sends  diseases  as  a  remedy  to 
cure  the  disorders  of  the  soul,  He  only  can  cure 
them  ;  while  you  are  chastened,  you  are  sure  God 
loves  you  ;  you  are  not  sure  of  that,  when  you  are 
without  chastisement. 

A  timely  preparation  for  death  frees  us  from  the 
fear  of  death,  and  from  all  other  fears. 

A  true  Christian  is  neither  fond  of  life,  nor  weary 
of  it. 

The  sting  of  death  is  sin  ;  therefore,  a  holy  life 
is  the  only  cure  for  the  fear  of  death.  We  ought  to 
fear  sin  more  than  death,  because  death  cannot  hurt 
us  but  by  sin. 

"  To  me  to  die  is  gain." — Philippians  i.  21. 

O  that  I  may  be  able  to  say  this,  when  I  come  to 
die;  and  so  I  shall,  if  I  live  as  becomes  a  Christian. 

Holiness  being  a  necessary  qualification  for  hap- 
piness, it  follows,  that  the  holiest  man  will  be  the 
happiest,   for   there   are  certainly  degrees   of  glory, 

O % O 


o — o 

SATURDAY  MEDITATIONS.  283 

therefore  a  Christian  should  lose  no  time  to  gain  all 
the  degrees  of  virtue  and  holiness  he  possibly  can ; 
and  he  that  does  not  do  so,  is  in  a  fair  way  of  not 
being  happy  at  all. 

It  concerns  us  more  than  our  life  is  worth  to  know 
what  will  become  of  us  when  we  die. 

Who  will  pretend  to  say,  that  he  is  not  in  a  very 
few  days  to  die  1 

The  only  happiness  of  this  life  is  to  be  secure  of 
a  blessed  eternity. 

Now  is  the  time  in  which  we  are  to  choose  where 
and  what  we  are  to  be  to  all  eternity  ;  there  is,  there- 
fore, no  time  to  be  lost  to  make  this  choice. 

No  kind  of  death  is  to  be  feared  by  him  who 
lives  well. 

If  we  consider  death  as  the  night  of  that  day 
which  is  given  us  to  work  in,  in  which  to  work  out 
our  salvation  ;  and  that  when  the  night  is  come,  no 
man  can  work :  how  frio^htful  must  death  be  to  such 
as  are  not  prepared  for  it !  And  if  we  consider  it  as 
the  beginning  of  eternity,  it  is  still  more  dreadful. 
It  is  for  this  reason  called  the  "  Kino-  of  Terrors  :"* 
and  the  Psalmist,  when  he  would  express  the  worst 
of  evils,  saith,  "  The  terrors  of  death  are  fallen  upon 
me."t 

"  If  the  Lord  were  pleased  to  kill  us,  He  would 
not  have  received  a  burnt  offering  at  our  hands,  nei- 
ther would  He  have  showed  us  all  these  thinors." — 
Judges  xiii.  23. 

And  this  is  the  comfort  of  all  God's  servants ;  if 

*  Job  xviii.  14.  f  Psalm  iv.  4. 

O ( 


o o 

284  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

He  gives  them  opportunities  of  renewing  their  vows, 
and  a  will  to  do  them  ;  if  He  accepts  their  alms  and 
their  good  deeds,  that  is,  gives  them  a  heart  to  do 
such ;  if  He  touches  their  hearts  with  a  sense  of 
their  unworthiness  :  if  He  opens  their  ear  to  disci- 
pline ;  if  He  chastises  them  with  His  Holy  Spirit, 
&,c.  All  these  are  reasons  for  a  Christian  to  hope, 
that  these  graces  are  not  in  vain,  but  that  God  will 
crown  them  with  pardon,  favour,  and  happiness  eter- 
nal. 

"  And  at  midnight  there  was  a  cry  made,  Behold, 
the  bridegroom  cometh,  go  ye  out  to  meet  him." — 
Matthew  xxv.  6. 

A  terrible  voice  to  all  such  as  shall  meet  Him, 
not  as  a  Bridegroom,  but  as  an  inexorable  Judge. 

Grant,  O  Lord,  that  I  may  not  be  of  the  number 
of  those  who  dread  Thy  coming,  who  cannot  but 
with  regret  submit  to  the  necessity  of  dying,  and 
who  have  neglected  to  prepare  for  death,  till  the  last 
hour. 

"  And  the  door  was  shut." — Matthew  xxv.  10. 

Death  shuts  the  door.  No  more  to  be  done.  It 
is  then  too  late  to  repent,  to  resolve,  to  promise,  and 
to  do  any  thing. 

**  Watch,  therefore,  for  ye  know  neither  the  day 
nor  the  hour  wherein  the  Son  of  Man  cometh." — 
Matthew  xxv.  13. 

A  person,  whose  life  is  full  of  good  works,  whose 
heart  is  devoted  to  God,  whose  faith  and  hope  are 
pure  and  sincere,  will  never  be  surprised  by  death. 

"  Jesus  Christ  yielded  up  the  ghost," — Matthew 

0 O 


0 


SATURDAY    MEDITATIONS.  285 


xxvii.  50, — and  so  His  death  became  a  voluntary 
sacrifice.  Let  mine  be  so,  O  blessed  Jesus  !  Let 
Thy  death  sanctify  me  ;  and  let  my  spirit  be  received 
with  Thine  ! 

"  Being  justified  by  faith,  we  have  peace  with 
God,  throuo-h  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ." — Romans  v.  1. 

Give  me,  O  Lord,  that  desire  and  earnest  longing, 
which  I  ought  to  have,  for  that  happy  moment,  which 
is  to  release  me  from  this  state  of  banishment,  and 
translate  me  to  a  better  place  ;  and  grant,  that  I  may 
never  lose  the  sight  of  that  important  moment. 

Let  me,  O  God,  have  my  lot  and  portion  with 
Thy  saints. 

When  we  come  to  die,  the  great  enemy  of  our 
souls  will  then  attack  us  with  all  his  stratagems.  It 
is  good  therefore  to  be  prepared. 

If  he  attacks  your  faith,  say  with  St.  Paul,*  "  I 
know  whom  I  have  believed,  and  am  persuaded  that 
He  is  able  to  keep  that  which  I  have  committed  unto 
Him  against  that  day." 

I  believe  in  God  the  Father,  who  hath  made  me 
and  all  the  world. 

I  believe  in  God  the  Son,  who  hath  redeemed  me 
and  all  mankind. 

I  believe  in  God  the  Holy  Ghost,  who  hath  sanc- 
tified me  and  all  the  elect  people  of  God. 

I  give  Thee  hearty  thanks,  O  heavenly  Father, 
that  Thou  hast  vouchsafed  to  call  me  to  the  know- 
ledge of  Thy  grace  and  faith  in  l^hee.  Confirm  this 
faith  in  me  evermore  ;  grant  that  I  may  die  in  this 

*  2  Timothy  i.  12.  I 

o 6 


o 0 

286  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

faith,  and  in  the  peace  and  communion  of  Thy  holy 
church  ;  and  that  I  may  be  united  to  Jesus,  the  Head 
of  this  church,  and  to  all  his  members,  by  a  love  that 
shall  never  end.     Amen. 

"  Whosoever  believeth  in  Jesus  Christ  shall  not 
perish,  but  have  eternal  life." — John  iii.  15, 

I  believe  : — Lord,  increase  my  faith ;  and  let  it 
be  unto  Thy  servant  according  to  this  word. 

"  This  day  shalt  thou  be  with  me  in  paradise." 
— Luke  xxiii.  43. 

O  blessed  Jesu  !  support  my  spirit  when  I  come 
to  die,  with  this  comfortable  promise,  "  This  day 
shalt  thou  be  with  me  in  paradise." 

We  indeed  suffer  justly  the  sentence  of  death.  O 
Thou,  Who  didst  nothing  amiss,  and  yet  didst  suffer 
for  me ;  remember  me,  O  Lord,  now  that  Thou  art 
in  Thy  kingdom. 

What  terror,  what  affliction,  can  equal  that  of  a 
Christian,  who  has  never  thought  of  weaning  his 
heart  from  the  world  till  he  comes  to  die  ?  Who  can 
find  nothing  in  his  life,  but  what  must  render  him 
unworthy  of  mercy  ?  But  the  greatest  of  all  miseries 
would  be  to  despair  of  mercy,  and  not  to  have  re- 
course to  it. 

Need  a  person,  who  has  received  the  sentence  of 
death,  be  persuaded  to  prepare  for  death  ?  And  is 
not  this  our  case  ? 

Consider  death,  as  appointed  by  God,  as  a  neces- 
sary penance,  as  the  completion  of  the  Christian 
sacrifice,  as  a  passage  to  a  better  life,  as  the  deliver- 
ance of  a  prisoner,  as  the  recalling  of  an  exile  from 

O O 


O Q 

SATURDAY    MEDITATIONS.  287 

banishment,  as  the  end  of  all  miseries  : — and  then 
you  will  strip  it  of  much  of  that  terror  which  it  has 
when  considered  as  an  accident  of  nature  only. 

*'  And  ye  yourselves  like  unto  men  that  wait  for 
their  Lord," — Luke  xii.  36. 

He  who  waits  for  his  master  will  always  endeavour 
to  be  in  that  state  in  which  he  desires  to  be  found. 

A  Christian  should  not  look  upon  death  with  anxi- 
ety, but  with  the  satisfaction  of  a  good  servant,  who 
waits  with  impatience  for  his  master's  return,  in 
hopes  of  being  approved  of 

"  Be  ye  ready  also,  for  the  Son  of  Man  cometh 
at  an  hour  when  ye  think  not." — Luke  xii.  40. 

And  are  not  so  many  sudden  deaths  sufficient  to 
convince  us  of  the  folly  of  assuring  ourselves  of  one 
day  1  Let  every  one  of  us,  therefore,  count  himself  of 
the  number  of  those  that  are  to  be  surprised  by  death  ; 
this  will  make  us  watchful. 

"  Blessed  is  that  servant,  whom  his  Lord,  when 
he  cometh,  shall  find  so  doing," — Luke  xii.  43, — That 
is,  doing  his  duty. 

And  then,  miserable  will  he  be,  whom  death  sur- 
priseth  either  doing  evil,  or  doing  nothing,  or  doing 
that  which  God  does  not  require  of  him.  Can  one 
imagine,  that  the  generality  of  Christians  believe  this 
truth  ?  Suffer  me  not,  O  God,  to  fall  into  a  forgetful- 
ness  of  it. 

We  complain  (saith  Seneca)  of  the  shortness  of 
life ;  he  answers.  Vita,  si  scias  ufi,  longa  est, — 
"  Life  is  long,  if  you  know  how  to  use  it."  But 
then  it  is  Christianity  only  can  teach  us  how  to  use 

O : 6 


o -O 

288  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

our  life  ;  namely,  "  in  working  out  our  own  salva- 
tion :"  and  we  are  sure  it  is  long  enough  for  that, 
because  God  has  appointed  it  for  that  very  end. 

As  Christianity  alone  can  take  from  us  the  love  of 
life,  so  it  is  this  alone  that  can  free  us  from  the  fear 
of  death. 

It  signifies  little  how  a  man  spends  his  life  and 
his  time,  if  he  does  not  employ  them  in  securing  a 
blessed  eternity. 

Eternity  adds  an  infinite  weight  to  all  our  actions, 
whether  grood  or  bad. 

If  we  desire  that  our  death  should,  like  that  of 
Jesus  Christ,  be  a  sacrifice  of  love  and  obedience, 
we  must  take  care  to  make  our  life  so  too. 

"  This  woman  was  full  of  good  works  and  alms- 
deeds  ;   and  she  died." — Acts  ix.  39. 

Happy  that  soul  which  death  finds  rich,  not  in 
gold,  furniture,  learning,  reputation,  or  barren  pur- 
poses and  desires,  but  in  good  works. 

"  And  they  stoned  Stephen,  calling  upon  God, 
and  saying,  Lord  Jesus,  receive  my  spirit." — Acts 
vii.  59. 

O  my  God,  enable  me  to  live  to  Thee,  that  when 
the  hour  of  death  shall  come,  I  may  thus  with  con- 
fidence offer  up  my  spirit  to  Jesus  Christ. 

'*  Thou  shalt  not  know  what  hour  I  will  come 
upon  Thee." — Rev.  iii.  3.  j 

Is  it  not  then  the  highest  presumption  to  persuade    | 
ourselves  that  we  have  always  time  sufficient,  when    | 
Jesus  Christ  himself  declares  that  we  have  not  one 
moment  certain  ? 

o ■ —6 


o o 

SATURDAY    MEDITATIONS.  289 

Death  being  the  effect  and  punishment  of  sin, 
we  ought  to  expect  it  with  great  submission,  since  it 
honours  God  by  expiating  of  sin,  and  saves  the  man 
by  punishing  the  sinner. 

It  is  purely  for  want  of  faith,  that  we  tremble  at 
the  approach  of  our  Deliverer ;  and  which  is  to 
destroy  in  us  the  reign  of  sin,  and  instate  us  in  that 
of  glory. 

Let  us  resign  up  ourselves  to  God,  as  to  the  man- 
ner in  which  it  shall  please  Him  to  determine  our 
lives,  praying  only  that  it  may  be  to  His  glory  and 
our  salvation. 

What  does  it  signify  how  this  house  of  clay  per- 
isheth,  which  hinders  the  perfect  renovation  of  the 
soul,  and  the  sight  of  God  ? 

"  For  we  know,  that  if  our  earthly  house  of  this 
tabernacle  were  dissolved,  we  have  a  building  of 
God,  a  house  not  made  with  hands,  eternal  in  the 
heavens." — 2  Cor.  v.  1. 

We  know,  we  believe,  we  promise  ourselves  this, 
but  we  think  too  seldom  of  it,  and  we  still  make  less 
use  of  what  we  know,  in  order  to  wean  our  hearts 
from  this  world. 

Would  we  look  upon  our  bodies  as  houses  of 
clay  just  ready  to  fall,  we  should  think  of  that  eternal 
house  ;  we  should  sigh  after  our  native  country,  and 
be  willing  to  leave  a  place  of  misery  and  banishment. 

Remember,  that  death  is  the  punishment  of  sin ; 
we  ought  therefore  to  resign  ourselves  up  to  it  in 
a  Christian  manner,  looking  upon  ourselves  as  con- 
demned to  it  in  Adam. 

13 

O O 


o o 

290  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

Consider  well,  that  life  is  given  and  continued 
for  no  other  end,  but  to  glorify  God  in  working  out 
our  salvation. 

He  who  has  lived  and  looked  on  earth,  as  in  a 
place  of  banishment,  will  look  upon  death  as  a  gra- 
cious deliverance  from  it. 

A  man  goes  with  confidence  to  meet  the  bride- 
groom, when  he  has  been  faithful  to  him,  and  believes 
him  to  be  his  friend. 

"  And  deliver  them  who  through  fear  of  death 
were  all  their  life  long  subject  to  bondage." — He- 
brews ii.  15. 

Bondage  is  the  sentence  of  rebellious  slaves ; 
we  were  condemned  to  it  in  Adam  ;  and  being  under 
this  sentence  of  death  and  the  Divine  justice,  we 
ought  to  expect  it  with  submission,  and  be  always 
preparing  for  it.  This  is  the  only  way  to  be  secure, 
and  from  fearing  death  when  it  comes. 

Gather  us,  O  God,  to  the  number  of  Thine  elect, 
at  what  time  and  in  what  manner  Thou  pleasest ; 
only  let  us  be  without  reproach,  and  blameless  ;  let 
faith,  and  love,  and  peace,  accompany  our  last  periods. 

We  look  upon  a  body  without  a  soul  with  horror. 
We  can  see  a  body  with  a  soul,  which  is  like  to  die 
eternally,  without  concern. 

"  Wretched  man  that  I  am,  who  shall  deliver  me 
from  the  body  of  this  death?  I  thank  God  (I  am 
delivered)  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord." 

Grant,  O  Lord,  that  though  my  outward  man  de- 
cay daily,  yet  that  my  inward  man  may  grow  and 
increase  in  piety  and  virtue  unto  the  day  of  my  death. 

6 O 


O Q 

SATURDAY    MEDITATIONS.  291 

He  that  hath  lived  best  will  stand  in  need  of 
mercy  at  the  hour  of  death,  and  in  the  day  of  judg- 
ment ;  and  he  that  hath  lived  the  w^orst  has  not  sin- 
ned beyond  the  efficacy  of  the  blood  of  Christ,  pro- 
vided his  repentance  be  sincere. 

My  God  !  let  Thy  glory  be  magnified  by  saving 
a  sinner,  by  redeeming  a  captive  slave,  by  enlighten- 
ing a  heart  overwhelmed  in  darkness,  by  changing  a 
wicked  heart,  by  pardoning  innumerable  transgres- 
sions, iniquities,  and  sins. 

If  my  hopes  were  placed  upon  any  thing  but  the 
infinite  mercies  of  God,  in  Jesus  Christ,  which  can 
never  fail,  I  should  utterly  despair. 

*'  Whosoever  shall  call  on  the  name  of  the  Lord, 
shall  be  saved." — Acts  ii.  21. 

These,  my  God,  are  thine  own  words ;  give  me 
leave  to  trust  in  them,  to  depend  on  them,  both  now 
and  at  the  hour  of  death. 

"  I  have  finished  the  work  which  Thou  gavest 
me  to  do." — John  xvii.  4. 

O  Lord,  the  very  best  of  men  come  infinitely 
short  of  this  pattern  ;  how  then  shall  I,  an  unprofit- 
able servant,  appear  before  my  Lord  and  Judge  ? 

"  The  seed  of  the  woman  shall  bruise  the  ser- 
pent's head." — Genesis  iii.  15. 

This,  my  God,  is  Thy  sure.  Thy  eternal  promise ; 
I  believe  it ;  I  trust  in  it ;  I  will  hold  me  fast  by  it. 

'*  That  I  may  rejoice  in  the  day  of  Christ,  that 
I  have  not  laboured  in  vain." — Phil.  ii.  16. 

"  Nevertheless  not  my  will,  but  Thine  be  done." 
— Luke  xxii.  42. 

6 


o 

292  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

May  I,  O  blessed  Jesus,  when  my  death  ap- 
proaches, breathe  out  my  last  with  these  words,  and 
with  the  same  spirit  of  submission. 

DEATH    OF    FRIENDS. 

Let  us  caist  our  eyes  upon  sin,  which  is  the  cause 
of  death,  and  then  we  shall  weep  with  reason. 

Preserve  in  us  a  lively  sense  of  the  world  to 
come. 

And  when  I  shall  not  be  able  to  pray  for  myself, 
the  good  Lord  favourably  hear  the  prayers  of  His 
Church  for  me. 

Grant  that  the  sins  which  I  have  committed  in 
this  world  may  not  be  imputed  unto  me ;  but  that 
escaping  the  gates  of  hell,  I  may  dwell  in  the  regions 
of  light,  with  Abraham,  Isaac,  and  Jacob,  until  the 
day  of  the  general  resurrection,  and  that  I  then  may 
hear  those  joyful  words  of  Thy  Son, — "  Come,  ye 
blessed  children  of  my  Father,  inherit  the  kingdom 
prepared  for  you  from  the  beginning  of  the  world." 

Grant  that  I  may  have  a  perfect  conquest  over 
the  world,  sin,  and  death,  through  Christ,  Who  by 
His  death  hath  overcome  him  who  hath  the  power  of 
death. 

"  This  day  shalt  thou  be  with  Me  in  paradise." 
— Luke  xxiii.  43. 

O  Jesus,  who  hadst   compassion   on  this  thief, 

even  at  the  hour  of  death,  have  mercy  upon  me,  who 

now  repent  of  all   my  misdoings.      Suffer  not  the 

gates  of  paradise  to  be  shut  against  me  when  I  die, 

I 
O — O 


o . o 

SATURDAY    MEDITATIONS.  293 

Thou  that  hast  opened  the  kingdom  of  heaven  to  all 
believers. 

Restore  my  soul  at  the  great  day  to  life  eternal. 

Give  me  the  patience  of  Job,  the  faith  of  Abra- 
ham, the  courage  of  Peter,  and  the  comfort  of  Paul, 
and  a  true  submission  to  Thy  will. 

Apply  to  my  soul  all  the  wholesome  medicines  of 
Thy  Son's  passion,  death,  and  resurrection,  against 
the  powers  of  Satan,  against  all  unreasonable  fears 
and  despair,  and  ease  my  fearful  conscience. 

Hear  the  prayers  of  Thy  Church  for  me,  and  for 
all  in  my  condition,  for  Jesus  Christ's  sake. 

"  Cast  me  not  away  in  the  time  of  age  ;  forsake 
me  not  when  my  strength  faileth  me." — Psalm 
Ixxi.  9. 

Grant,  O  Lord,  that  the  end  of  my  life  may  be 
truly  Christian ;  without  sin,  without  shame,  and,  if 
it  so  please  Thee,  without  pain. 

"  My  flesh  and  my  heart  faileth  ;  but  God  is  the 
strength  of  my  heart,  and  my  portion  for  ever." — 
Psalm  Ixxiii.  20. 

"  It  is  the  Lord  ;  let  Him  do  what  seemeth  Him 
good." — 1  Samuel  iii.  18. 

Lord,  be  merciful  unto  me ;  heal  my  soul,  for  I 
have  sinned  against  Thee. 

I  confess  my  wickedness,  and  am  sorry  for  my 
sin. 

For  Thy  name's  sake,  O  Lord,  be  merciful  unto 
my  sin,  for  it  is  great. 

The  Lord  is  nigh  unto  them  that  are  of  a  contrite 
heart,  and  will  save  such  as  are  of  a  humble  spirit. 

O 


o o 

294  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

"  And  now,  Lord,  what  is  my  hope  ?  truly  my 
hope  is  in  Thee." — Psalm  xxxix.  8. 

"  Lord,  Thou  knowest  whereof  we  are  made : 
that  we  are  but  dust." — Psalm  ciii.  14. 

Let  my  misery,  my  fear,  my  sorrow,  move  Thee 
to  compassion. 

Despise  not,  O  Lord,  the  work  of  Thine  own 
hands. 

I  freely  forgive  all  that  have  offended  me. 

O  Thou  that  never  failest  them  that  seek  Thee, 
have  pity  on  me. 

Nevertheless,  though  I  am  sometimes  afraid,  yet 
put  I  my  trust  in  Thee. 

O  Lord,  I  beseech  Thee,  deliver  my  soul.  Gra- 
cious is  the  Lord  and  righteous,  yea,  our  God  is 
merciful. 

O  go  not  far  from  me,  for  trouble  is  at  hand,  and 
there  is  none  to  help  me. 

The  sorrows  of  my  heart  are  enlarged ;  O  bring 
Thou  me  out  of  my  troubles  ! 

O  keep  my  soul,  and  deliver  me  ;  let  me  not  be 
confounded,  for  I  have  put  my  trust  in  Thee. 

Withdraw  not  Thy  mercy  from  me,  O  Lord ;  let 
Thy  loving-kindness  and  Thy  truth  alway  preserve 
me. 

O  Lord,  let  it  be  Thy  pleasure  to  deliver  me ; 
make  haste,  O  Lord,  to  help  me. 

Show  Thy  servant  the  light  of  Thy  countenance, 
and  save  me  for  Thy  mercy's  sake. 

O  deliver  me,  for  I  am  helpless  and  poor,  and  my 
heart  is  wounded  within  me. 

6 


Q O 

SATURDAY   MEDITATIONS.  295 

Wherefore  hidest  Thou  Thy  face,  and  forgettest 
our  misery  and  trouble  ? 

My  God !  save  Thy  servant,  who  putteth  his 
trust  in  Thee. 

Thou,  O  Lord,  art  full  of  compassion  and  mercy, 
long-suffering,  plenteous  in  goodness  and  truth. 

When  I  am  in  heaviness,  I  will  think  upon  God  ; 
when  my  heart  is  vexed,  I  will  complain. 

Will  the  Lord  absent  Himself  for  ever  ?  Will  He 
be  no  more  entreated  ? 

Hath  God  forgotten  to  be  gracious  ?  And  I  said, 
it  is  mine  own  infirmity  ;  but  I  will  remember  the 
years  of  the  right  hand  of  the  Most  High. 


THE  LITANY. 

O  God,  the  Father  of  heaven ;  have  mercy  upon 
me,  keep  and  defend  me. 

O  God  the  Son,  Redeemer  of  the  world ;  have 
mercy  upon  me,  save  and  deliver  me. 

O  God  the  Holy  Ghost ;  have  mercy  upon  me, 
strengthen  and  comfort  me. 

Remember  not,  Lord,  mine  offences,  nor  the 
offences  of  my  forefathers ;  neither  take  Thou  ven- 
geance of  our  sins  :  Spare  us,  good  Lord,  spare  Thy 
people,  whom  Thou  hast  redeemed  with  Thy  most 
precious  blood,  and  be  not  angry  with  us  for  ever. 

From  Thy  wrath  and  heavy  indignation  ;  from 
the  guilt  and  burden  of  my  sins ;  from  the  dreadful 
sentence  of  the  last  judgment ; 

O O 


o o 

296  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

Good  Lord,  deliver  me. 

From  the  sting  and  terrors  of  conscience ;  from 
impatience,  distrust,  or  despair ;  from  extremity  of 
sickness  and  pain,  which  may  withdraw  my  mind 
from  God ; 

Good  Lord,  deliver  me. 

From  the  bitter  pangs  of  eternal  death  ;  from  the 
gates  of  hell ;  from  the  powers  of  darkness ;  and 
from  the  illusions  of  Satan ; 

Good  Lord,  deliver  me. 

By  Thy  manifold  and  great  mercies ;  by  Thy 
manifold  and  great  merits ;  by  Thine  agony  and 
bloody  sweat ;  by  Thy  bitter  cross  and  passion  ;  by 
Thy  mighty  resurrection  ;  by  Thy  glorious  ascension, 
and  most  acceptable  intercession ;  and  by  the  graces 
of  the  Holy  Ghost ; 

Good  Lord,  deliver  me. 

For  the  glory  of  Thy  name ;  for  Thy  loving 
mercy  and  truth's  sake  ; 

Good  Lord,  deliver  me. 

In  my  last   and  greatest  need ;   in  the  hour  of 
death  ;  and  in  the  day  of  judgment ; 
Good  Lord,  deliver  me. 

As  Thou  hast  delivered  all  Thy  saints  and  ser- 
vants which  called  upon  Thee  in  their  extremity, 

Good  Lord,  deliver  me  ; — and  receive  my  soul  for 
Thy  mercy's  sake. 

Be  merciful  unto  me,  and  forgive  me  all  my  sins, 
which,  by  the  malice  of  the  devil,  or  by  my  own 
frailty,  I  have  at  any  time  of  my  life  committed 
against  Thee. 

O 0 


9 _ Q 

SATURDAY    MEDITATIONS.  297 

Lay  not  to  my  charge,  what  in  the  lust  of  the 
eye,  the  pride  of  life  or  vanity,  I  have  committed 
against  Thee. 

Lay  not  to  my  charge,  what  by  an  angry  spirit, 
by  vain  and  idle  words,  by  foolish  jesting,  I  have 
committed  against  Thee, 

Make  me  partaker  of  all  Thy  mercies  and  pro- 
mises in  Christ  Jesus. 

Vouchsafe  my  soul  a  place  of  rest  in  the  para- 
dise of  God,  with  all  Thy  blessed  saints  ;  and  my 
body  a  part  in  the  blessed  resurrection. 

O  Lord. God,  Lamb  of  God,  that  takest  away  the 
sins  of  the  world  ; 

Have  mercy  upon  me. 

Thou  that  takest  away  the  sins  of  the  world, 
Grant  me  Thy  peace. 

Thou  that  sittest  at  the  right  hand  of  God, 
Have  mercy  upon  me. 

Have  mercy  upon  me,  and  receive  my  prayer ; 
even  the  prayer  which  Thou  hast  taught  me  : — 

Our  Father  which  art  in  heaven,  &lc. 

O  Lord,  deal  not  with  me  after  my  sins  ;  neither 
reward  me  after  mine  iniquities, 

O  God,  merciful  Father,  that  despisest  not  the 
sighing  of  a  contrite  heart,  nor  the  desires  of  such 
as  be  sorrowful  :  mercifully  assist  my  prayers  which 
I  make  before  Thee — at  such  times  especially  as  I 
am  preparing  for  death  and  for  eternity.  And,  O 
Lord,  graciously  hear  me,  that  those  evils,  those  illu- 
sions, and  assaults,  which  my  great  enemy  worketh 
against  me,  may  be  brought  to  nought,  and  by  the 

13* 

O O 


o — — — o 

298  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

providence  of  Thy  goodness  they  may  be  dispersed ; 
that  Thy  servant,  being  delivered  from  all  tempta- 
tions, may  give  thanks  to  Thee,  with  Thy  holy 
church,  to  all  eternity.     Amen. 

Let  us  endeavour,  by  a  timely  repentance,  to  pre- 
vent the  reproaches  which  otherwise  our  consciences 
will  cast  upon  us  at  the  hour  of  death. 

THE  SUPPORT  OF  A  PENITENT  AT  THE  HOUR 
OF  DEATH. 

"  God  so  loved  the  world,  that  He  gave  His  only- 
begotten  Son,  that  whosoever  believeth  in  Him  should 
not  perish,  but  have  everlasting  life." — John  iii.  16. 

"  We  have  an  Advocate  with  the  Father,  Jesus 
Christ  the  righteous,"  (1  John  ii.  1,)  Who  came  into 
the  world  to  save  sinners.  Who  died  for  us  when  we 
were  His  enemies,  that  He  might  offer  us  unto  God. 

It  is  our  Judcre  Himself  who  hath  assured  us, 
that  *'  all  sins  shall  be  forgiven  unto  the  sons  of 
men." 


EJACULATIONS. 

Take  from  me  all  evil  imaginations,  all  impurity 
of  thought,  all  inclinations  to  lust,  all  envy,  pride, 
and  hypocrisy,  all  falsehood,  deceit,  and  an  irregular 
life,  all  covetousness,  vain-glory,  and  sloth,  all  malice, 
anger,  and  wrath,  all  remembrance  of  injuries,  every 

o . 6 


o— — o 

SATURDAY    MEDITATIONS.  299 

thing  that  is   contrary  to  Thy  will,  O  Most  Holy 
God  ! 

LOVE    OF    GOD,    ETC. 

Bless  me,  O  God,  with  the  love  of  Thee,  and  of 
my  neighbour.  Give  me  peace  of  conscience,  the 
command  of  my  affections ;  and  for  the  rest,  Thy 
will  he  done  ! 

O  King  of  peace,  give  us  Thy  peace,  keep  us  in 
love  and  charity  ! 

Make  Thyself,  O  God,  the  absolute  master  of  my 
heart ! 

''  They  that  be  whole  need  not  a  physician." — It 
belongs  to  Thee,  O  sovereign  Physician,  to  make  us 
sensible  of  our  maladies,  and  to  go  to  Thee  for  help. 
O  say  unto  my  soul  this  w^ord  of  salvation,  "  Behold, 
thou  art  made  whole  !" 

"  Without  Me,  ye  can  do  nothing." — Miserable 
indeed  is  he  who  pretends  to  walk  without  Thee.  O 
give  me  light  to  see,  a  heart  to  close  with,  and  a 
power  to  do  Thy  will.  From  Thy  Spirit  I  hope  to 
receive  these  graces. 

"  If  any  man  serve  Me,  let  him  follow  Me  ;  and 
him  will  My  Father  honour." — John  xii.  26. 

Let  me  never  flatter  myself  that  I  serve  Thee, 
my  Saviour,  unless  I  follow  Thy  example  at  the 
expense  of  every  thing  I  love  or  fear  besides.  O 
keep  my  heart  fixed  upon  that  honour  which  God 
has  prepared  for  those  that  follow  Thee. 

O  Divine  Spirit,  render  me  worthy  of  Thy  pre- 
sence and  consolation. 

b 


o 

300  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

Fill  my  heart  with  a  holy  dread  of  Thy  judg- 
ments. 

Give  me  a  true  sense  and  knowledge  of  the  dan- 
ger and  the  evil  of  sin ;  and  may  I,  with  a  prudent 
moderation  only,  be  concerned  for  temporal  things. 

Jesus  Christ  is  always  in  His  temple,  and  near 
you,  (if  your  soul  be  fit  for  Him  to  dwell  in  j)  to  Him 
apply  on  all  occasions  : — 

As  your  Master,  for  grace  to  study,  to  love,  to 
teach,  and  to  follow  His  instructions.  He  requires 
nothing  but  what  He  first  practised  Himself 

As  your  Lord ;  that  you  may  love  and  serve  Him 
faithfully,  and  fulfil  all  His  commands. 

As  your  pattern  ;  that  you  may  follow  His  exam- 
ple, and  imitate  His  virtues. 

As  your  Saviour  ;  that  he  may  be  your  refuge 
and  confidence,  your  strength  and  support,  your 
peace  and  consolation,  your  Saviour  now  and  at  the 
hour  of  death. 

As  your  King ;  that  He  may  give  laws  to  your 
soul,  and  that  you  may  surrender  yourself  to  His 
commands  ;  and  never  rebel  or  resist  His  authority. 

As  your  Shepherd.  Keep  me  in  Thy  flock  by 
Thy  Almighty  grace.  I  am  one  of  the  lost  sheep 
which  Thou  earnest  to  seek.  O  take  me  under  Thy 
care,  and  restore  me  to  Thy  fold.  Increase  Thy 
flock  for  the  honour  of  Thy  name. 

WILFUL    SIN. 

Let  me  rather  choose  to  die,  than  to  sin  against 
my  conscience. 

O —6 


o 


■ — ~ — ^o 

!  SATURDAY    MEDITATIONS.  301 

/ 
/  PENITENT. 

I  am  ashamed  to  come  before  Thee,  but  I  must 
come  or  perish,  I  know  that  Thou  art  angry  with 
me  for  my  sins,  but  I  know  too  that  Thou  pitiest 
me,  or  why  do  I  yet  live  1  Make  me  full  of  sorrow 
for  my  sin,  and  full  of  hopes  of  Thy  mercy  and  par- 
don. Look  upon  the  infirmities  of  Thy  servant,  and 
consider  his  weakness.  Sensible  of  my  own  sad  con- 
dition, weak  and  miserable,  sinful  and  ignorant,  lia- 
ble to  eternal  death,  I  prostrate  myself  before  Thee, 
imploring  Thy  help  and  pardon. 

Gracious  God,  never  abandon  me  to  the  opposi- 
tion I  shall  at  any  time  make  to  Thy  grace. 

Blessed  be  God,  that  he  has  so  often  prevented 
me,  and  not  left  me  to  the  desires  of  my  own  heart. 

Put  a  stop  to  the  torrent  of  wickedness  and  pro- 
faneness  which  carries  all  before  it. 

I  confess  my  sins  .unto  Thee,  my  God ;  do  Thou 
hide  them  from  all  the  world. 

ETERNITY. 

Lord,  imprint  upon  my  heart  a  lively  idea  of 
eternity,  that  the  sorrowful  passages  of  this  life, 
which  are  so  uneasy  and  frightful  to  nature,  may 
vanish,  or  be  borne  with  patience. 

EXAMPLE. 

Pardon  my  sin,  and  forgive  all  such  as  have  been 
misled  by  any  evil  example  of  mine.  I 


o o 

302  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

''  Be  ye  perfect,  even  as  your  Father  which  is  in 
heaven  is  perfect." — Matthew  v.  48. 

O  Divine  repairer  of  our  corrupt  nature,  may 
Thy  all-powerful  grace  make  me  as  perfect  as  Thou 
hast  commanded  me  to  be. 

HOLINESS. 

0  God,  who  hast  called  me  to  holiness,  give  me 
a  firm  faith  in  Thy  power,  through  our  Lord  Jesus 
Christ,  that  by  His  assistance  I  may  get  the  mastery 
over  all  my  sins  and  corruptions  ;  that  I  may  be  re- 
deemed from  all  iniquity  ;  that  I  may  be  holy,  as  He 
who  has  called  me  is  holy. 

Possess  my  soul  with  an  earnest  desire  of  pleas- 
ing Thee,  and  with  a  fear  of  offending  Thee. 

Let  me  be  ever  ready  to  forgive  injuries,  and 
backward  to  offer  any. 

Give  me,  O  Lord,  faith  and  patience,  that  I  may 
neither  murmur  at  Thy  appointments,  nor  be  angry 
against  the  instruments  of  Thy  justice. 

Deliver  me  from  the  errors  and  vices  of  the  age 
we  live  in ;  from  infidelity,  wicked  principles,  from 
profaneness,  heresies,  and  schism. 

1  most  heartily  thank  Thee,  O  God,  for  Thy  per- 
petual care  of  me,  for  all  Thy  mercies  bestowed  upon 
me,  for  the  blessings  of  nature  and  of  grace. 

Give  a  blessing  to  those  means  which  Thou  Thy- 
self hast  appointed. 

Grant,  O  God,  that  I  may  never  receive  Thy 
grace  in  vain,  but  that  I  may  live  like  one  who  be- 
lieves and  hopes  for  the  joys  of  heaven. 

O O 


0 o 

SATURDAY    MEDITATIONS.  303 

Let  me  ever  be  sorry  for  my  sins,  thankful  for 
Thy  blessings,  fear  Thy  judgments,  love  Thy  mer- 
cies, remember  Thy  presence. 

Vouchsafe  me  Thy  Holy  Spirit  to  bear  witness 
with  my  spirit,  that  I  am  Thy  child. 

Give  me  a  humble  mind,  a  godly  fear,  and  a  quiet 
conscience. 

Weaken,  O  Lord,  the  power  of  Satan  in  this 
place,  and  the  tyranny  of  his  ministers 


IN    TIME    OF    PESTILENCE    OR    DANGER. 

Set  Thy  saving  mark  upon  our  houses,  and  give 
orders  to  the  destroyer  not  to  hurt  us. 

"  Verily,  verily,  I  say  unto  you,  whatsoever  ye 
shall  ask  the  Father  in  My  name.  He  will  give  it 
you." — -John  xvi.  3. 

"  Lord,  if  Thou  wilt.  Thou  canst  make  me  clean. 
— I  will,  be  thou  clean." — Matthew  viii.  2,  3. 

Upon  this  promise,  blessed  Lord,  I  depend ;  be- 
seeching Thee,  O  heavenly  Father,  for  Thy  dear 
Son's  sake,  to  give  me  the  graces  I  most  stand  in 
need  of 

AFTER  PRAYERS. 

Vouchsafe  us  those  graces  and  blessings  which 
Thou  knowest  to  be  needful  for  us,  notwithstanding 
our  great  unworthiness. 

O- — O 


?• 


o 


304  SACRA    PRIVATA. 


RICHES. 

Shut  my  heart,  O  Lord,  against  the  love  of  worldly 
riches,  lest  I  betray  Thee  as  Judas  did. 

May  Thy  Holy  Spirit,  O  God,  fill  my  heart,  that 
it  may  appear  in  all  my  words  and  actions,  that  I  am 
governed  by  it. 

"  And  when  he  saw  him,  he  had  compassion  on 
him." — Luke  x.  33. 

O  Jesus,  the  true  Samaritan,  look  upon  the 
wounds  which  sin  hath  caused  in  my  soul,  and  have 
compassion  on  me. 

May  I  always  resign  my  will  and  my  desires  to 
Him  who  knows  what  is  good  for  us  better  than  we 
ourselves  do. 

HOLY   SCRIPTURES. 

Give  me,  O  God,  a  sincere  love  for  the  truths  of 
the  Gospel,  a  teachable  heart,  and  an  obedient  will. 

PERSEVERANCE. 

Finish,  O  my  God,  the  work  of  mercy  and  con- 
version, which  Thou  hast  begun  in  me. 

Save,  O  Lord  Jesus,  a  soul  which  Thou  hast  re- 
deemed by  Thy  blood. 

There  is  no  merit  in  me,  O  God,  to  attract  Thy 
mercy  and  goodness,  but  only  my  great  misery  and 
blindness.  May  I  make  a  suitable  return  by  a  holy 
life. 


O 


o — ,_        o 

SATURDAY    MEDITATIONS.  305 

According  to  the  greatness  of  Thy  goodness,  and 
the  multitude  of  Thy  mercies,  look  upon  me. 

Sanctify  my  soul  and  body  with  Thy  heavenly 
blessings,  that  they  may  be  made  Thy  holy  habita- 
tion, and  that  nothing  may  be  found  in  me,  that  may 
offend  the  eyes  of  Thy  Majesty. 

Protect  and  keep  me  in  the  midst  of  the  dangers 
of  this  corrupt  world  ;  and  by  Thy  light  and  grace 
direct  me  in  the  way  to  everlasting  life,  through  Jesus 
Christ. 

MORNING. 

I  laid  me  down  and  slept,  and  rose  again,  for  the 
Lord  sustained  me.  Blessed  be  the  name  of  the 
Lord. 

Raise  me  up,  O  Lord,  at  the  last  day,  to  life  and 
happiness  everlasting. 

Blessed  be  the  Lord  for  His  mercies  renewed 
unto  me  every  morning. 

O  that  my  eyes  may  ever  be  fixed  upon  the  ex- 
ample that  our  blessed  Lord  hath  left  us,  and  that  I 
may  daily  endeavour  to  follow  him.     Amen. 

NIGHT. 

May  the  Saviour  and  Guardian  of  my  soul  take 
me  under  his  protection  this  night  and  evermore. 

''  Attend  upon  the  Lord  without  distraction." — 1 
Cor.  vii.  35. 

O  Holy  Spirit  of  Grace,  help  my  infirmities,  that 


0 O 

306  SACRA    PRIVATA. 

I  may  fix  my  thoughts  upon  my  duty ;  and  that  I 
may  serve  Thee  with  all  my  heart  and  mind. 

That  I  may  never  give  w^ay  to  wandering 
thoughts,  but  watch  against  them  continually. 

Look  upon  me,  O  Lord,  and  pity  me  ;  make  me, 
and  let  me  be  Thine  by  the  choice  of  my  will  ! 

Make  me  serious  and  thoughtful  at  all  times,  that 
I  may  not  fail  being  so  when  I  attend  upon  God. 

Let  not  my  heart,  O  God,  be  inclined  to  any  evil 
thing.  Keep  me,  O  God,  from  every  thing  that  may 
displease  Thee.     O  make  me  wise  unto  salvation. 

"  For  all  seek  their  own,  not  the  things  which  are 
Christ's."— Phil.  ii.  2L 

The  good  Lord  deliver  me  from  this  dreadful 
judgment. 

"  I  can  do  all  things  through  Christ,  which 
strengtheneth  me." — Phil.  iv.  13. 

O  that  I  may  never  forfeit  this  power  by  presump- 
tion or  want  of  faith. 

"  Thomas  said,  My  Lord  and  my  God  !" — John 
XX.  28. 

Thou  art  indeed,  O  Jesus,  my  Lord,  for  Thou 
hast  redeemed  me  by  Thy  precious  blood  ;  Thou  art 
my  God,  for  I  am  dedicated  to  Thee,  and  sanctified 
by  Thy  Spirit. 

''  And  all  that  believed  were  together,  and  had 
all  things  common." — Acts  ii.  44. 

May  God  grant,  that  as  we  are  all  members  of 
the  same  body,  have  one  and  the  same  Father,  the 
same  Saviour,  and  the  same  Spirit,  and  hope  to  meet 
in  the  same  paradise ;  that  we  may  live  in  unity  and 

6 


o — 


-o 


SATURDAY    MEDITATIONS. 


307 


godly  love,  and  be   charitable  to  the  poor  according 
to  our  ability,  and  as  every  one  hath  need. 

The  good  Lord  grant  that  in  the  day  of  Christ  I 
may  rejoice  that  I  have  not  run  in  vain,  nor  laboured 
in  vain. 


O- 


o- 


-o 


COLLECTS 


THEIR     TENDENCY. 


Comfort  of  the  Holy  Ghost,    .    . 

Humiliation, 

Direction  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  .     . 
Manifold  gifts  of  the  Holy  Ghost, 

Means  of  Grace  ;  Hearing,      .    . 

Reading,     .     . 


■  Fasting,  . 


To  convert  us  from  sin, 


First  Sunday  after  Ascension. 

Whitsunday. 

Nineteenth  Sunday  after  Trinity. 

St.  Barnabas. 

St.  Bartholomew. 
St.  Luke. 

Second  Sunday  in  Advent. 

First  Sunday  in  Lent. 
'  Tenth  and  twenty- third  Sundays  after 
!         Trinity. 

'First  Sunday  in  Advent. 
Fiist  Sunday  after  Easter. 
St.  Andrew. 
St.  James. 
St.  Matthew. 


( Twelfth,  twenty-first,  and    twenty- 
Pardon  of  sin,  and  acceptance  with    \         fourth  Sundays  after  Trinity. 
God,       .     .  J  Purification, 

'  Second  Sunday  after  Epiphany. 


To  rescue  us  from  temptation, 


Fourth  Sunday  in  Advent. 
Fourth  Sunday  after  Epiphany. 
Eighteenth  Siuiday  after  Trinity. 


o 


o 


o o 

COLLECTS  :    THEIR    TENDENCY.  309 

I 

C  Fifth  Sunday  after  Easter. 

To  enable  us  to  do  good,    .    .    .    .  )  Fi"t'    ninth    eleventh     thirteenth, 
=       »  1         seventeenth,     and     twenty-fifth 

(         Sundays  after  Trinity. 

To  bring  us  to  glory,     ...        .    |  ISsSday  after  Epiphany. 

Regeneration, Christmas  Day. 

Charity, duinquagesima, 

M»'«=-"«». JEirsr 

Contrition, Ash  Wednesday. 

Sincerity, Third  Sunday  after  Easter. 

r  Fourth  Sunday  after  Easter. 
Love  of  God  and  his  laws, .    .    .    .    ^  Sixth  and  fourteenth  Sundays  after 

(         Trinity. 

Heavenly  desires, Ascension. 

Faith  right, Trinity  Sunday. 

(  Seventh  Sunday  after  Trinity. 

Faith  firm, ^  St.  Thomas. 

(  St.  Mark. 

I™,.a.io„  of  Chris. li?c?„S7a;\ft:fE.,.a,. 

'St.  Stephen. 
St.  Paul. 

W,aUo„of,aiaU •!  It  SlitfEipS 

Innocents. 
^  All  saints. 

Guarding  of  angels  and  God's  provi-  S  Second  third,  fourth,  and  twentieth 

'  (  St.  Michael. 

Deliverance  from  enemies,     .    .    .      Third  Sunday  in  Lent. 

e  Sexagesima. 
Deliverance  from  judgments, .    .    .    ^  Septuagesiraa. 

(  Fourth  Sunday  in  Lent. 

Support  under  afflictions,  .    .    .    .    | '^^' EpjpEfn/^"'^^    ^""^^^^^    ^"®' 

Defence  from  evil,  and  supply  of   {  Eighth  and  fifteenth  Sundays  after 
good, (         Trinity. 

For  Jews,  Turks,  &c Good  Friday. 

0 6 


o- 


-o 


310 


COLLECTS  :    THEIR    TENDENCY. 


That  ministers  may  be  fit,  diligent, 
and  successful,    .    . 


That  the  people  may  be  kept  in 
Truth,  unity,  and  peace,      .     . 


St.  Matthias. 

St.  Peter. 

Third  Sunday  in  Advent. 

''Good  Friday. 
St,  John. 

St.  Simon  and  Jude. 
Fifth,    sixth,  and  twelfth  Sundays 
after  Trinity. 


J.  F.  Trow  &  Co.,   Pbintbbs, 
33  Ann-Street. 


BOOKS 

IN    THE    VARIOUS    DEPARTMENTS 

OF 
PUBLISHED  BT 

►  .  APPI.ETON   &   CO.,    ]VEl¥-Y©ISIi 

AND 

GEORGE  S.  APPIiETOX,  PI1II.ADEL.PII1  A. 


HISTORY     OF     THE    REFORMATION 

OF  THE  CHURCH  OF  ENGLAND,  By  Gilbert  Burnet, 
D.D.,  late  Bishop  of  Salisbury.  With  a  Collection  of  Records, 
and  a  copious  Index,  revised  and  corrected,  with  additional 
Notes  and  a  Preface,  by  the  Rev.  E.  Narcs,  D.D.  Illustrated 
'vvith  a  Frontispiece  and  twenty-three  Portraits  on  steel.  Form- 
iug  four  elegant  8vo.  vols,  of  near  600  pages  each.     ^8  00. 

To  the  student  either  of  civil  or  religious  history  no  epoch  can  be  of  nnore 
importaTice  than  that  of  the  Reformation  in  England.  It  signalized  the 
overthrow,  in  one  of  its  strongest  holds,  of  tlie  Romnn  power,  and  gave  an 
impulse  to  the  human  mind,  the  full  results  of  wliich  are  even  now  but 
parll)'  realized.  Almost  all  freedom  of  inquiry — all  toleration  in  matters  of 
religion,  had  its  birth-hour  then  ;  and  witliout  a  familiar  acquaintance  with 
all  its  principal  events,  but  little  progress  can  be  made  in  understanding 
the  nature  and  ultimate  tendencies  of  the  revolution  then  effected. 

The  History  of  Bistiop  Burnet  is  one  of  the  most  celebrated  and  by  far 
the  most  frequently  quoted  of  any  that  has  been  written  of  this  great  event. 
Upon  the  original  publication  of  the  first  volume,  it  was  received  in 
Great  Britain  with  the  loudest  and  most  extravagant  encomiums.  The 
author  received  the  tlianlcs  of  both  Houses  of  Parliament,  and  was  request- 
ed by  them  to  contmue  the  work.  In  continaing  it  he  had  the  assistance  of 
the  most  learned  and  eminent  divines  of  his  time  ;  and  he  confesses  his  in- 
debtedness for  important  aid  to  Lloyd,  Tillotson  and  Stillingfleet, 
three  of  the  greatest  of  England's  Bishops.  *'  I  know,"  says  he,  in  his  Pre- 
face to  the  second  volume,  "  that  notliing  can  more  effectually  recommend 
tliis  work,  than  to  say  that  it  passed  with  their  hearty  approbation,  after 
they  had  examined  it  withtiiat  care  which  their  great  zeal  for  the  cause  con 
cerned  in  it,  and  their  goodness  to  the  author  and  freedom  with  him,  obliged 
them  to  use." 

The  present  edition  of  this  great  work  has  been  edited  with  laborious 
care  by  Dr.  Nares,  who  professes  to  have  corrected  important  errors  into 
which  the  author  fell,  and  to  have  made  such  improvements  in  the  order  of 
the  work  as  will  render  it  far  more  useful  to  the  reader  or  historical  student. 
Preliminary  explanations,  full  and  sufficient  to  the  clear  understanding  of 
the  author,  are  given,  and  marginal  references  are  made  throughout  the 
book,  so  as  greatly  to  facilitate  and  render  accurate  its  consultation.  The 
whole  is  published  in  four  largo  octavo  volumes  of  six  hundred  pages  in 
cacli — printed  upon  heavy  paper  in  large  and  clear  type.  It  contains  por- 
traits of  twenty-four  of  the  most  celebrated  characters  of  the  Reformation, 
and  is  issued  in  a  very  neat  style.  It  will  of  course  find  a  place  in  every 
theologian's  library — and  will,  by  no  means,  we  trust,  be  confined  to  that 
comparatively  limited  sphere. 


S         D.  Appleton  ^  Co.^s  Catalogue  of  Valuable  Worksf. 

BURNET    ON    THE    XXXIX.   ARTICLES, 

An  Exposition  of  the  Thirty-nine  Articles  of  the  Church  of  Eng- 
land. By  Gilbert  Burnet,  D.D.,  late  Bishop  of  Salisbury. 
With  an  x\ppcndix,  containing  the  Augsburg  Confession — Creed 
of  Pope  Pius  IV.,  (fee.  Revised  and  corrected,  with  copious 
Notes  and  additional  References,  by  the  Rev.  James  R.  Page, 
A.M.,  of  Queen's  College,  Cambridge.  In  one  handsome  8vo. 
volume.     ^2  00. 

"No  Churchman,  no  Theologian,  can  stand  in  need  of  information  as  to 
the  character  or  value  of  Bishop  Burnet's  Exposition,  whicli  long  since  took 
its  fitting  place  as  one  of  the  acknowledged  and  admired  standards  of  the 
Church.  It  is  only  needful  that  vt'e  speak  of  the  labours  of  the  editor  of  t!ie 
present  edition,  and  these  appear  to  blend  a  fitting  niudesty  with  eminent 
industry  and  judgment.  Tlius,  while  Mr.  Page  has  carefully  verified,  and 
in  many  instances  corrected  and  enlarged  the  references  to  the  Fathers, 
Councils  and  other  authorities,  and  greatly  multiplied  the  Scripture  citations 
— for  the  Bishop  seems  in  many  cases  to  have  forgotten  that  his  readers 
would  not  all  be  as  familiar  with  the  Sacred  Text  as  himself,  and  might  not 
as  readily  find  a  passage  even  when  they  knew  it  existed — he  (Mr.  P.)  has 
scrupulously  left  the  text  untouched,  an(}  added  whatever  illustrative  mat- 
ter he  has  been  able  to  gather  in  the  form  of  Notes  and  an  Appendix. 
The  documents  collected  in  the  latter  are  of  great  and  abiding  value." 

PEARSON     ON    THE    CREED. 

An  Exposition  of  the  Creed.  By  John  Pearson,  D.D.,  late 
Bishop  of  Chester.  With  an  Appendix,  containing  the  Principal 
Greek  and  Latin  Creeds.  Revised  and  corrected  by  the  Rev. 
W.  S.  Dobson,  M.  A.,  Peterhouse,  Cambridge.  In  one  handsome 
8vo.  volume.  $2  00. 
The  following  may  be  stated  as  the  advantages  of  this  edition  over  all  others. 

First — Great  care  lias  been  taken  to  correct  the  numerous  errors  in  the 
references  to  the  texts  of  Scripture  which  had  crept  in  by  reason  of  the  re- 
peated editions  through  which  this  admirable  work  has  passed  ;  and  many 
references,  as  will  be  seen  on  turning  to  the  Index  of  Texts,  have  been  added. 

Secondly— The  Quotations  in  the  Notes  have  been  almost  universally 
identified  and  the  references  to  them  adjoined. 

Lastly — The  principal  Symbola  or  Creeds,  of  which  tlie  particular  Articles 
have  been  cited  by  the  author,  have  been  annexed  ;  and  wherever  the  ori- 
ginal writers  have  given  the  Symbola  in  a  scattered  and  disjointed  manner, 
the  detached  parts  have  been  brought  into  a  successive  and  connected  point 
of  view.  These  have  been  added  in  chronological  order  in  the  form  of  an 
Appendix. —  Vide  Editor. 

Jflagee  on  ^^loneinent  and  Sficri/fce, 

Discourses  and  Dissertations  on  the  Scriptural  Doctrines  of  Atone- 
ment and  Sacrifice,  and  on  the  Principal  Arguments  advanced, 
and  the  Mode  of  Reasoning  employed  by  the  Opponents  of 
those  Doctrines,  as  held  by  the  Established  Church.  By  the 
late  most  Rev.  Wm.  M'Gee,  D.D.,  Archbishop  of  Dublin. 
Two  vols,  royal  8vo.  beautifully  printed.     ^5  00. 

"This  is  one  of  the  ab!est  criiical  and  polemical  works  of  modern  timpB.  Archbishop  Mngcc  ia 
trnly  a  maleus  hereticolum.  He  is  an  exi  ellent  schular,  Jtn  acute  rcasoiier,  and  is  po«-etsed  of  a 
most  exl^nsive  acquaintance  with  the  w.de  field  of  ai'gimient  to  which  his  volumci  are  devoted— '.ha 
nrofoimd  Biblical  information  on  a  variety  of  topics  wliich  llw  Archbishop  brings  forward,  must  en- 
flew  hie  name  to  all  lovers  of  Chriwi&nity,' —  0?«e. 


D.  Applefon  ^  Co, ^8  Catalogue  of  Valuahle  Works. 


PALMER'S 

TREATISE    ON    THE    CHURCH. 

A  Treatise  on  the  Church  of  Christ.  Designed  chiefly  for  the 
use  of  Students  in  Theology.  By  the  Rev.  William  Palmer, 
M.A.,  of  Worcester  College,  Oxford.  Edited,  with  Notes,  by 
the  Right  Rev.  W.  R.  Whittinghara,  D.D.,  Bishop  of  the  Pro- 
testant Episcopal  Church  in  the  Diocese  of  Maryland.  Two 
vols.  8vo.,  handsomely  printed  on  fine  paper.     ^5  00. 

"Thelreatise  of  Mr.  Palmer  is  the  best  exposition  and  vindication  of  Church  Principlea 
that  we  have  ever  read  ;  excelling  contemporaneous  treatises  in  depth  of  learning  and  ^oli- 
<iity  of  judgment,  as  mncii  as  itexcels  older  treatises  on  tlie  like  subjects,  in  adaptation  to 
the  wants  and  habits  of  the  age.  Of  its  influence  in  England,  where  rt  has  passed  through 
two  editions,  we  have  not  the  means  to  form  an  opinion  ;  but  we  beh-eve  that  in  this  country 
■it  has  already,  even  liclore  its  reprint,  done  more  to  restore  tlie  sound  tone  of  Catholic  prm- 
ciples  and  feeling  than  any  otlier  one  work  of  the  age.  Tlie  author's  learning  and  powers  of 
conibinaiion  and  arrangement,  great  as  they  obviously  are,  are  less  remarkable  than  the  sterl- 
ing good  sense,  the  vigorous  and  solid  judgment,  which  is  everywhere  manifest  in  the  trea- 
ti>e,  and  confers  on  it  its  distinctive  excellence.  Tlie  style  of  the  author  is  distinguished  for 
<Jignity  and  masculine  energy,  while  his  tone  is  everywhere  natural  ;  on  proper  occasions, 
reverential  ;  and  always,  so  far  as  we  remember,  sufficiently  conciliatory. 

"To  our  clergy  and  intelligent  laity,  who  desire  to  see  the  Church  justly  discriminated 
from  Romanists  on  the  one  hand,  and  dissenting  denominations  on  the  other,  we  earnestly 
commend  Palmer's  Trealiseon  the  Church." — A*.  Y,  Churchman. 

PAROCHIAL    SERMONS, 

BY    JOHN    HENRY   NEWMAN,    B.D., 

Fellow  of  the  Oriel  College  and  Vicar  of  St.  Mary  the  Virgin's, 
Oxford.  The  six  volumes  of  the  London  edition  complete  in 
two  elegant  8vo.  volumes  of  upwards  of  600  pages  each.  $5  00. 

^jCr'  Mr.  Newman's  Sermons  have  probably  attained  a  higher  character 
than  any  others  ever  pubhshed  in  this  country.  The  following  recom- 
mendatory letter  (is  one  of  the  many)  received  by  the  publishers  during 
their  progress  through  the  press. 

From  the  Bishop  of  North  Carolina. 

Raleigh,  Nov.  28, 1842. 
Your  letter  announcing  your  intention  to  republish  the  Parochial  Sermons  of  the  Rev.  John 
Henry  Newman,  B.D.,  Oxford,  has  given  me  sincere  pleasure.  In  complymg  with  your 
request  for  my  opinicm  of  them,  I  do  not  hesitate  to  say, — after  a  constant  use  ol  them  in  my 
•closet,  and  an  observation  of  tlieir  effect  upon  some  of  my  friends,  for  the  last  six  years, — that 
they  are  among  the  very  best  practical  sermons  in  the  English  language ;  that  while  they  ara 
free  from  those  extravagances  of  opinion  usually  ascribed  to  the  author  of  the  yOth  Trad, 
they  assert  in  the  strongest  manner  the  true  doctrines  of  the  Reformation  in  England,  and  en- 
force witn  peculiar  solemnity  and  effect  that  holiness  of  life,  with  the  means  thereto,  so  char- 
acteristic ofthe  i'atliers  of  that  trying  age.  With  high  respect  and  esteem,  your  friend  and 
cervant,  L.  S.  IVES. 

HARE'S    PAROCHIAL    SERMONS. 

Sermons  to  a  Country  Congregation.  By  Augustus  Willinra 
Hare,  A.M.,  late  Fellow  of  New  College,  and  Rector  of  Alton 
Barnes,     One  volume,  royal  8vo.     $2  25. 

"  Any  one  who  can  be  pleased  with  delicacy  of  thought  expressed  in  the  most  simple  lan- 
guage— any  one  wlui  can  feel  the  charm  of  finding  practical  duties  elucidated  and  enforced 
by  a[it  and  varied  illustralions--will  tie  delighted  with  this  volume,  which  presents  us  with  lh« 
9  v>fkings  of  a  pious  and  highly  gifted  mind." — Q,uur.  Review. 


4        D.  Appleton  ^  Co.^s  Catalogue  of  Valuable  Worl<s- 

THE    KINGDOM    OF    CHRIST; 

Or,  Hints  respecting  the  Principles,  Constitution,  and  Ordinances 
of  the  CathoUc  Church.  By  Frederick  Demson  Maurict, 
M.A.  Chaplain  of  Guy's  Hospital,  Professor  of  EngUsh  Litera- 
ture and  History,  King's  College,  London.  In  one  elegant  oc- 
tavo volume  of  600  pages,  uniform  in  style  with  NewniMi's- 
Sermons,  Palmer  on  the  Church,  &c.     $2  50. 

'*  Mr.  Maurice's  work  is  eminently  lilted  to  engage  tlie  attenlion  and  meet  tlie  want?  of  alt 
interested  in  the  ^evtral  incvvcmeuts  tUatarenow  taking  place  i<i  the  religioHs  cop/imiinity  ;  it 
takes  up  the  pretentions  genei  ally  of  the  several  Protestant  denuniinalioiis  anduf  Ihe  Uo- 
Baanists,  so  as  to  commend  itself  in  the  growing  interest  in  tlie  controversy' hetween  the  lat. 
ler  and  their  opjionents.  The  political  portion  of  tlie  work  contains  much  that  is  altraclive 
lo  a  thoughtful  man,  of  any  or  of  no  religious  persuasion,  ia  lefereucs  to  the  existing  and  poa 
Bible  future  state  ol'oar  country." 

A    MANUAL    FOR    COMMUNICANTS; 

Or  the  Order  for  Administering  the  Holy  Communion;  conveniently  ar- 
ranged witli  Meditations  and  Prayers  from  Old  English  Divines,  being 
the  Eucharistica  of  Samuel  Wilberforce,  M.A.,  Archdeacon  of  Surry, 
(adapted  to  the  American  service.)  Convenient  size  for  ihe  pocRet 
37r  cents — gilt  edges  50  cents. 

"  These  meditations,  prayers,  and  expositions,  are  given  in  the  ver}'  words  of  the  illustri- 
ous divines,  martj  rs,  confessors,  and  doctors  of  the  Church;  Hnd  they  form  altogether 
such  a  body  of  instructive  matter  as  is  nowhere  else  to  be  found  in  the  same  con*- 
pass.  Tliougli collected  from  various  autliors,  the  whole  is  pervaded  by  a  unity  of  spirit  and 
purpose;  and  we  most  earnestly  commend  the  work  as  belter  tilted  than  any  other  vvhicU 
we  know,  to  subserve  the  ends  of  sound  edification  and  fervent  and  substantial  devotion. 
The  American  reprint  luis  been  edited  by  a  deacon  of  great  promise  in  the  Church,  and  in.  ap- 
projiriately  diidicaieii  to  tlie  Bishop  of  this  diocese."— C/t«rc/iwifi;». 

OGILBY  ON    LAY-BAPTISM  r 

An  OutlinS  on  the  Argument  against  the  Validity  of  Lay-Baptism.  By  the 
Rev.  John  D.  Ogilby,  A.M.,  Professor  of  Ecclesiastical  History.  One 
volume  12rrio.,  75  cents. 

"  We  have  been  favoured  with  a  copy  of  the  above  work,  and  lose  no  time  in  announcing 
its  publication.  Krom  a  cursory  inspection  of  it,  we  take  it  to  bs  a  thorough,  I'earlesj',  and 
very  able  Uiscussion  of  the  subject  which  it  proposes,  aiming  less  to  excite  inquiry,  lUan  tu 
satisfy,  by  learned  and  ingenious  argument,  inquiries  already  e.xcited." — ClMrdnnun. 

THE    PRIMITIVE     DOCTRINE    OF 
E  LECTI O  N  : 

Or,  an  Historical   Inquiry  into  the  Ideality  and  Causation  of  Scripturai 
Election,  as  received  and  maintained  in  the  Primitive  Church  of  Christ. 
By  George  Stanley  Faber,  B.D.,  author  of  "  Difficulties  of  Romanism,'^ 
•'  Difficulties  of  Infidelity,"  &c.    Complete  in  one  volume  octavo.  $1  75. 
•'  Mr.  Fabor  verifies  his  opinion  by  demonstration.      We  cannot  pay  a  liiglier  respect  to  lii*. 

work  Uianby  rccommendii'-  it  to  alI."-C/ii"-c/i  of  Eit£l<i/td  Quarterly  Rciicu). 


D.  Appleton  ^  Co.^s  Catalogue  of  Valuable  WorTcs.        5 

CHURCHMAN'S  LIBRARY. 

The  volumes  of  this  series  are  of  a  standard  character  and   highly  recom- 
mended by  the  Bishops  and  Clergy  of  the  Protestant  Episcopal  Church. 

THE    PRACTICAL    CHRISTIAN; 

Or,  Devout  Penitent.  By  R.  Sherlocke,  D.D.,  with  a  Life  of  the  Author,  by 
the  Right  Rev.  Bishop  Wilson.     One  elegant  volume.      16mo.    75  cents. 

THE  CHURCHMAN'S  COMPANION  IN  THE  CLOSET; 

Or,  a  Complete  Manual  of  Private  Devotions.  Collected  from  the  writings  of 
Archbishop  Laud,  Bishop  Andrewes,  Bishop  Ken,  Dr.  Hickes,  Mr.  Kettle- 
well,  Mr.  Spinckes,  and  other  eminent  old  English  Divines.  With  a  Pre- 
face by  Rsv.  Mr.  Spinckes.  Edited  by  Francis  E.  Paget,  M.  A.  One  ele- 
gant volume,  16rao.     $1  00. 

OF    THE     IMITATION    OF    CHRIST. 

Four  books,  by  Tliomas  a  Kempis,  a  new  and  complete  edition,  elegantly 
printed.     1  vol.  IGnio.     $1  00. 

THE     EARLY     ENGLISH     CHURCH; 

Or,  Christian  History  of  England  in  early  British,  Saxon,  and  Norman  Times. 
By  the  Rev.  Edward  Churton,  M.A.  With  a  Preface  by  the  Right  Rev. 
Bishop  Ives.     1  vol.  ICuio.,  elegantly  ornamented.     $1  00 

LEARN   TO    DIE. 

Disce  Mori,  Learn  to  Die  :  a  Religious  Discourse,  moving  every  Christiaa 
man  to  enter  into  a  serious  Remembrance  of  his  End.  By  Christopher  Sut- 
ton, D.D.,  late  Prebend  of  Westminster.  1  vol.  16mo.,  elegantly  orna- 
mented.    $1  00. 

SACRA    PRIVATA  : 

The  Private  Meditations,  Devotions,  and  Prayers  of  the  Right  Rev.  T.  Wil- 
son, D.D.,  Lord  Bishop  of  Soder  and  Man.  First  complete  edition.  1  vol. 
royal  16mo.,  elegantly  ornamented.     $1  00. 

MEDITATIONS   ON   TH  E  SACRAM  ENT. 

Godly  Meditations  upon  the  most  Holy  Sacrament  of  the  Lord's  Supper.  By 
Christopher  Sutton,  D.D.,  late  Prebend  of  Westminster.  1  vol.  royal  16mo., 
elegantly  ornamented.     $1  00. 

A    DISCOURSE    CONCERNING    PRAYER 

And  the  frequenting  Daily  Public  Prayer.  By  Symon  Patrick,  D.D.,  sometime 
Lord  Bishop  of  Ely.  Edited  by  Francis  E.  Paget,  M.A.,  Chaplain  to  the 
Lord  Bishop  of  Oxford.     1  vol.  royal  16mo.,  elegantly  ornamented.  75  cents. 

THOUGHTS    IN     PAST    YEARS. 

collection  of  Poetry,  chiefly  Devotional.     By  the  auth 
ithedral."     1  vol.  royal  16mo.,  elegantly  printed.     $1  S 

THE    CHRISTMAS    BELLS: 

Holy   Tide,  and  other  Poems.     By  the  author  of  "  ( 
ja,"  &o.     1  vol.  royal  16mo.,  elegantly  ornamented.     ' 

,%*  These  volumes  will  be  followed  by  othera  of  equal  importance. 


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Cathedral."     1  vol.  royal  16mo.,  elegantly  printed.     $1  25. 


A  Tale  of  Holy   Tide,  and  other  Poems.     By  the  author  of  "  Constance,'' 
"Virginia,"  &o.     1  vol.  royal  16mo.,  elegantly  ornamented.     75  cents. 


6         V.  Appleton  §•  Co.^8  Catalogue  of  Valuable  WorJts. 

'  SCRIPTURE    AND    GEOLOGY.         ^ 

On  the  Relation  between  the  Holy  Scriptures  ami  some  parts  of  Genl.io^iral 
Science.  By  John  Pye  Smith,  D.D.,  author  of  the  "  Scripture  Testimony 
of  the  Messiah,"  &c.  &c.      1  vol.  ]2mo.     $125. 

"The  volume  consists  of  eight  lectures,  to  which  are  appended  seventy 
pages  of  supplementary  notes.  The  first  lecture  Is  introductory  ;  the  second 
is  scientifically  descriptive  of  the  principal  topics  of  geolotrical  science;  the 
third  includes  a  research  into  the  creation  of  our  globe  ;  the  fourth  and  fifth 
lectures  comprise  an  examination  of  the  deluge  ;  the  sixth  discusses  the  apjia- 
rent  dissonance  between  the  decisions  of  geologists,  and  the  hitlierto  re- 
ceived interpretation  of  Scripture,  with  an  additional  exposition  of  the  diluvial 
theory  ;  the  seventh  is  devoted  to  illustration  of  the  method  to  interpret  the 
Scriptures,  so  that  they  may  harmonize  with  the  discoveries  of  geology  ;  the 
eighth  is  the  peroration  of  the  whole  disquisition. 


WORKS    BY    THE    REV.    DR.    SPRAGUE. 

TRUE  AND  FAIiSE  RELIGION. 

Lectures   illustrating  the    Contrast   between  True    Christianity  and  various 
other  systems.    By  William  B.  Sprague,  D.D.     1  vol.  12mo.     $1  00. 

LECTURES  ON  REVIVAIiS  IN  REI.IGION. 

By  W.   B.    Sprague,   D.D.     With   an    Introductory  Essay  by   Leonard 
Woods,  D.D.     1  vol.  12mo.    87i  cents. 

LETTERS    TO    A    DAUGHTER 

On  Practical  Subjects.     By  W.  B.  Sprague,  D.D.    Fourth  edition,  revised 
and  enlarged.     1  vol.  12mo.     75  cents. 

LECTURES  TO  YOUNG  PEOPLE. 

By  W.  B.   Sprague,   D.D.    W^ith  an  Introductory  Address.     By  Samuel 
Miller,  D.D.     Fourth  edition.     1  vol.  12mo.     87i  cents. 

The  writings  of  Dr.  Sprague  are  too  well  known,  and  too  highly  estimated 
by  the  Christian  community  generally,  to  require  any  other  enromium  than 
is  furnished  by  their  own  merits  ;  for  this  reason  it  is  thought  unnecessary  to 
subjoin  the  favourable  testimonies  borne  to  their  utility  and  excellence  by  the 
whole  circle  of  the  periodical  press  of  this  country,  and  the  fact,  that  they 
have  each  passed  through  several  editions  in  England,  sufficiently  attests  the 
estimation  in  which  they  are  held  abroad. 

SPIRITUAL   CHRISTIANITY. 

Lectures  on  Spiritual  Christianity.     By  Isaac  Taylor,  author  of  "  Spiritual 
Despotism,"  «fcc.  &c.     1  vol   12mo.     75  cents. 

"This  work  is  the  production  of  one  of  the  most  gifted  and  accomplished 
minds  of  the  present  age.  If  some  of  his  former  productions  may  have  been 
thought  characterized  by  too  much  metaphysical  abstraction,  and  in  some  in- 
stances, by  speculations  of  doubtful  importance  the  present  volume  is,  we 
think,  in  no  degree  liable  to  this  objection.  It  is  indeed  distinguished  for  deep 
thought  and  accurate  discrimination:  and  whoever  would  read  it  to  advantage, 
must  task  his  faculties  in  a  much  higher  degree,  than  in  reading  ordinary 
books:  and  yet  it  contains  nothing  which  an  ordinary  degree  of  intelligence 
and  application  may  not  readily  comprehend.  The  view  which  it  gives  of 
Christianity,  both  as  a  system  of  truth  and  a  system  of  duty,  is  in  the  highest 
degree  instructive  ;  and  its  tendencies  are  not  less  to  quicken  the  intellectual 
faculties,  than  to  direct  and  elevate  the  moral  sensibilities.  We  have  no  doubt 
that  it  will  be  read  with  great  interest  by  those  who  read  to  find  materials 
for  thought,  and  that  it  is  destined  to  exert  a  most  impf)rtant  influencp,  espe- 
cially on  the  more  intellectual  classes  in  the  advancement  of  the  interests  of 
truth  and  piety." — Albany  Evening  Journal. 


D.  Appleton  ^  Co.'s  Catalogue  of  Valuable  Worhi 


Works  by  Rev.   Robert  Philip. 

YOUNG    MAN'S   CLOSET    LIBRARY. 

By  Robert  Philip.     With  an  Introductory  Essay  by  Rev.  Albert  Barnes.  1  vol 
12mo.     $1  00. 

LOVE  OF  THE  SPIRIT,  Traced  in  his  Work  :  a  Companion  to  the  Ex- 
perimental Guides.     By  Robert  Philip.     1  vol.  18mo.     50  cts 

DEVOTIONAL  AND  EXPERIMENTAL  GUIDES.  By  Robert  Philip. 
With  an  Introductory  Essay  by  Rev.  Albert  Barnes.  2  vols.  12ma  $1  75. 
t^ontaining;  * 


Guide  to  the  Perplexed. 
Do.  do.  Devotional. 
Do.  do.    Thoughtful, 


Guide  to  the  Doubting-. 
Do,     do,     Couscientioua. 
Do,    do.     Redemption. 


LADY'S   CLOSET   LIBRARY. 

AS  follows: 
^^mo^5?^^'  "'  Beauty  of  I^emale  Holinees,    By  Robert  Philip.     1  vol 

™SJ^^S1^^ '  "'"  ^'^'"'^''^^  °^  ^emsXe  Piety.    By  Robert  Philip.    1  vol 
'^?fol^^l8mt^'50ct?^''^^''^'"^''*  °^  ^®"^^*  Character.    By  Robert  Philip 

The  Maternal  Series  of  the  above  popular  Library  is  now  ready,  entitled, 
^W.^Sm^^SO^tl'   ''^  ^ate^al  Influence  of  Sous,      By   Robert  Philip. 

"  The  author  of  this  work  is  known  to  the  pnbhc  as  one  of  the  most  prolific  writers  of  the 
day,  and  scarcely  any  writer  in  tlie  department  which  he  occupierharfcouir^  so  ext^ 
e4veand  welJ-menled  a  popularity.  The  pr-aeut  volume,  as  i's  Ule  denotes  is  devoted  to 
an  ,llu8trm>on  of  the  influence  of  mothers  on  their  sons;  and  tL  subiSu;a"ed  w°th  the 
same  ong.nal.ty  and  beauty  which  characterize  the  author's  other  works  It  wiJl  blfou  d 
tlLXXu  ttVi:-  r'""'  compan>oni„  the  nursery,  and  itstfluenc:' an  ha  d  J 
Jdil  to  be  lelt,  first,  m  quickening  the  sense  of  responsibihty  on  tlie  part  of  moUiere  •  ind 
L'fvlr°ur-i,i':r^:fr""°'  ''^  --Sgeneratfoa  to  a  W  a.Ldarl  oTillliru^erce 


GEMS   FROM   TRAVELLERS. 

Illustrative  of  various  passages  in  the  Holy  Scripture,  with  nearly  one  hundred 
H^ngravnigs.  Among  the  authorities  quoted  will  be  found  the  following  dis- 
tinguished names :  Harmer,Laborde,  Lane,  Madden,  Clarke,  Pococke, 
Chandler,  Malcom  Hartley,  Russel,  Jowitt,  Came,  Shaw,  Morier,  Neibuhr, 
Bruce,  Calmet,  H.  Blunt,  Belzoni,  Lord  Lindsay,  &c.  &c.  1  vol.  12mo. 
%pi  (JO. 

„»1Tk,^,"^°'^  Scriptures  contain  many  passagee  full  of  importance  and  beauty,  but  not  ee- 
to  ^o^.  t„  I.  °  ,i  ^^""""'^  '^^y-  ':""l'^'}/""'ion  to  inannirs  and  customs,  familiar  inde^ 
ohv^n^r.hU  H  ffi""  ll'^^.r'^  originally  addressed,  but  imperfectly  known  to  us.  In  order  to 
obviate  this  difficulty,  this  volume  is  now  presented  to  tlie  public,  consisting  of  extracts  from 
who"rr"werp?rnl''.*'^"'"  ^^°  ^"'^  '"^""^'^  "'«  customs  of  the  orien^l  nations,  foS 
the  thn^,  ih.n  .h. ^''""'f  "'^^'  ""^"^  '^''""^^  3""""^  "-^^  t°  ^hi,  day,  such  as  existed  at 
lilfill  A  "»«  Scriptures  were  written,  and  Uiat  these  names  ar«  q  many  instances 
hule  changed  emce  the  patriarchal  limes.  The  compiler  of  this  volume  trusts  tha?  U  miy  ba 
the  means,  under  God's  providence,  of  leading  unlearned  readers  to  a  more  general  ao 
quamtanoe  with  Eastern  customs,  and  a83i8t  them  to  a  clearer  perception  of  the  pXiety 
and  beauty  of  the  illustrations  so  often  drawn  from  them  in  the  Bible  proprieiy 


D.  Appleton  ^  Co.'s  Catalogue  of  Valuahle  Worhe. 


Works  by  the  Rev.  John  Angell  James. 

THE  TRUE  CHRISTIAN. 
By  the  Rev.  John  Angell  James.    With  an  Introduction  by  the  Rev.  Wm. 
Adams.     1  vul.  l8ino     $0  50. 

"  We  opine  that  tlie  publisliers  of  this  volume  made  an  accurate  calculation  when  they 
labelled  lliese  '  Addre.-.ses  ' — stereotfiped ;  for  they  are  among  the  choice  eti'usions  which 
alrfady  have  30  highly  beiieiited  Christian  siioiety  from  the  noble  heart  and  richly- 
endowed  mind  of  Mr.  James.  They  are  ministerial  counsels  to  the  members  of  i/is  coiigre 
gation,  and  are  oflered  as  monthly  epistlea  for  a  year,  bting  twelve  in  number,  and  are  tluis 
entitled:  'Increased  Holiness  of  the  Church;  Spirituality  of  Mind :  Heavenly  MindeJ- 
ness;  Assurance  of  Hojie;  Practical  Religion  8»en  in  every  thing:  A  Profitable  Sabbalh  ; 
Christian  Obligations ;  Life  of  Faith;  Influence  of  elder  Christians;  Spirit  of  Prayer;  Pfi- 
vate  Prayer,  and  Self  Examination.' " — Christian  IntelUffeticer. 

THE  YOUNG-  MAN  FROM  HOME. 
In  a  series  of  Letters,  especially  directed  for  the  Mnral  Advancement  of  Youth. 

By  the  Rev.  John  Angell  James.    Tenth  edition.    1  vol.  18ino.   37?  cts. 

"This  work,  from  the  able  and  prolific  pen  of  Mr.  James,  is  not  inferior,  we  think,  to  any 
of  its  predecessors.  It  contemplates  a  young  man  at  the  most  critical  period  of  life,  and 
meets  Lira  at  every  point  as  a  guide  in  the  paths  of  virtue,  as  a  guard  from  the  contagious 
influence  of  vice." — Albany  Aduer titer. 

THE   CHRISTIAN   PROFESSOR, 

Addressed  in  a  series  of  Counsels  and  Cautions  to  the  Members  of  Christian 

Churches.    By  the  Rev.  John  Angell  James.     1  vol.  18mo.    62?  cents. 

"  The  author  remarks  ia  this  excellent  volume:  'When  I  look  into  the  New  Testament 
and  read  what  a  Christian  should  be,  and  then  look  into  the  Church  of  God,  and  see  wliat 
Chiistians  are,  I  am  painfully  aflecled  by  observing  the  dissimilarity;  and  in  my  jealou?"y  for 
the  honour  of  the  Christian  profession,  have  made  this  eflbrt,  perhaps  a  feeble  one,  and  cer- 
tainly an  anxious  one,  to  remove  its  blemishes,  to  restore  its  impaired  beauty,  and  thus  raise 
it8  reputation.'  " 

THE  ANXIOUS  ENQUIRER  AFTER  SALVATION 

Directed  and  Encouraged.     By  the  Rev.  John  Angell  James.    1  vol. 

18mo.   37f  cents. 

Twenty  thousand  copies  of  this  excellent  little  volume   have  already  been 

sold,  which  fully  attests  the  high  estimation  the  work  has  attained  with  the 

religious  community. 

HAPPINESS,  ITS  NATURE  AND  SOURCES. 

By  the  Rev.  J.  A.  James.   1  vol,  32mo.   25  cents. 

"  This  is  written  in  the  excellent  author's  best  vein.     He  has,  with  a  searching  fidelity, 

exposed  the  various  unsatisfying  expedients  by  which  the   natural  heart  seeks  to  attain  the 

great  end  and  aim  of  all — happiness,  and  with  powerful  and  touching  exhortations  directed  it 

to  the  never-failing  source  of  all  good." — £)uange'ist. 

THE  WIDOW  DIRECTED 

To  the  Widow's  G-od.  By  the  Rev.  John  A.  James.  1  vol.  18mo.  371  cents. 

"  The  book  is  worthy  to  be  read  by  others  besides  the  class  for  which  it  is  especially  de- 
signed ;  and  we  doubt  not  that  it  destined  to  come  as  a  friendly  visitor  to  many  a  house  of 
i«ourning,  and  as  a  healing  balm  to  many  a  wounded  heart." — N.  Y.  Observer. 

CRUDEN'S   CONCORDANCE. 

Containing  all  the  Words  to  be  found  in  the  large  Work  relating  to  the  New 
Testament.    1  vol.  18mo.    50  cents. 

THE  POLYMICRIAN  NEW  TESTAMENT. 
Numerous  References,  Maps,  &c.     1  vol.  18mo.     30  cents 

THE   SACRED    CHOIR: 

A  COLLECTION  OF  CHURCH  MUSIC: 
Consisting  of  Selections  from  the  most  distinguished  authors,  among  whom 
are  the  names  of  Haydn,  Mozart,  Beethoven,  Perqolessi,  &c.  &c.  ; 
with  several  pieces  of  Music  by  the  autltor ;  also  a  Progressive  Elementary 
System  of  Instruction  for  Pupils.  By  George  KlNSSLEY,  author  ef  the  So- 
cial Choir,  &c.  <fe«.    Fourth  edition      ^  75 


D.  Appleton  <!^^Co:s  Catalogue  of  Valuahh  Woiks.  & 

Cabinet  E d iTf^^iTofThrp^^^t^ 

COWPER'S    COMPLETE    POETICAL 
WORKS. 

The  cornplete  PocticalWorks  of  William  Cowper  Esq  includino- 
the  Hymns  and  Translations  from  Mad.  GuionTSn  &c  anS 
Adazn,  a  Sacred  Drama,  from  the  Italian  of  Battista  Andretni 

i  V  o  elegantly  prmted  volumes,  400  pages  each,  16mo  ,  with 
beautiful  frontispieces.     $1   75.  '  ' 

Moralitv  uPvPvT'^'*  \'^^'  ""'^  complete  American  ediiion. 

n.oal      of  the  world     U.  '^"^^'"  '^'?"^'  ^  P°"'  '^""^'^  ^^"^  ^>^o  ^^^  to  be  the 
oi^Z     S^^^^^^^  T  '^  ^"^"""''  °f  "-'^-^he  teacher 

Ehcir  simplicity.  '  '^   '°  ''"  rendered  gracious  without  endangering 

BURNS'    COMPLETE   POETICAL 
WORKS. 

The  complete  Poetical  Works  of  Robert  Burns,  with  Explanatory 
and  Glossarial  IJotes,  and  a  Life  of  the  Author,  by  James  Cu'^ 
lie,  M.D.     1  vol.  16mo.     $1  25. 

MILTON'S    COMPLETE    POETICAL 
WORKS. 

The  complete  Poetical  Works  of  John  Milton,  with  Explanatory 
Notes  and  a  Life  of  the  Author,  by  the  Rev.  Henry  Itebbin/ 
A.M.     Beautifully  illustrated.     1  vol.  16nio.     il  25 
The  Latin  and  Italian  Poems  are  included  in  this  edition. ' 

aIluJ[on?S°;:rrt.r^^  ^"  ^^-/^-^-^  ^^e  learned 

T>,    P   ?^,^xTT^   POETICAL   WORKS. 

The  Poetical  Works  of  Sir  Walter  Scott,  Bart.-Containin^  Lay 

of  the  Last  Minstrel,   Marmion,  Lady  of  the  Lake,  Don  Rode- 

^^.  ^.}'^'   Ballads.  Lyrics,   and'Songs,  with  a  Life  of  the 

-  wlh    •«.  Uniform  with  Cowper,  Bums,  &c.    1  vol.  16mo  Si  25. 

servS  r  M  5'  "''k"°'^  P"!^^^"*"  "'^  ^"  '^'  P"^^^  "^  '^^^  Present  day,  and  de 
servediy  s^.  He  describes  that  which  is  most  easily  and  geueruiiv  understood 
with  more  v.vacty  and  effect  than  any  other  writer.  His  ftrle  is  clear  flow?^ 
and  transparent  ;  his  sentiments,  of  which  his  style  is  4  faW  and  natifal  m? 
dium,  are  common  to  him  with  his  readers."— ifL?^^.  nacuiai  me 


10        p.  Appleton  ^  Co.^s  Catalogue  of  Valuable  Works. 


GENERAL  HISTORY   OF  CIVILIZATION 

In  Europe,  from  the  fall  of  the  Roman  Empire,  to  the  French  Revolution. 

By  M.  Guizot,  Professor  of  History  to  the  Faculty  des  Lettres  of  Paris. 

Printed  from  the  second  English  edition,  with  Occasional  Notes,  by  C.  S. 

Henry,  D.D.,  of  New  York.    One  handsome  volume,  i2mo.    $100, 

The  third  edition  of  this  valuable  work  has  just  appeared,  with  numer- 
ous and  useful  notes,  by  Professor  Henry,  of  the  University  of  New- York, 
M.  Guizot,  in  his  instructive  lectures  has  given  an  epitome  of  Modern  His- 
tory, distinguished  by  all  the  merits  which  in  another  department,  renders 
Elackslone  a  subject  of  such  peculiar  and  unbounded  praise  ;  a  work  close- 
ly condensed,  including  no'.hing  useless  and  omitting  nothing  essential : 
written  with  grace,  and  conceived  and  arranged  with  consummate  ability. 

THE   NATURAL  HISTORY  OF  SOOIETY 

IN  THE  BARBAROUS  AND  CIVILIZED  STATE. 
An  Essay  towards  Discovering  the  Origin  and  Course  of  Human  Improve- 
ment.    By  W.  Cooke  Taylor,  LL.D.,  &c.,  of  Trinity  College,  Dublin, 
Handsomely  printed  on  fine  paper.    2  vols.  12mo     $2  25, 
"The  design  of  tliis  work  is  to  determine,  from  an  examination  of  the 
various  forms  in  which  society  ha«  been  found,  what  was  the  origin  of 
civilization  ;  and  under  what  circumstances  those  attributes  of  liumanity 
which  in  one  country  become  the  foundation  of  social  happiness,  are  in  ari- 
otlier  perverted  to  the  production  of  general  misery.' 

CARLYLE   ON    HISTORY  8o  HEROES. 

On  Heroes,  Hero-Worship,  and  the  Heroic  in  History.  Six  Lectures,  re- 
ported with  Emendations  and  Additions,  by  Thomas  Carlyle,  author  of 
the  French  Revolution,  Sartor  Resartus,  &c.  Elegantly  printed  in  1 
vol.  I2mo,    Second  edition,    $1  00. 

"  And  here  we  must  close  a  work — such  as  we  have  seldom  seen  the 
like  of,  and  one  which  redeems  the  literature  of  our  superficial  and  manu- 
facturing period.  It  is  one  to  purify  our  nature,  expand  our  ideas,  and  ex- 
alt our  souls.  Let  no  library  or  book-room  be  without  it ;  the  more  it  is 
studied  the  more  it  will  be  esteemed. "—Literary  Gazette. 

SOUTHEY'S    POETICAL   NA^ORKS. 

The  Complete  Poetical  Works  of  Robert  Southey,  Esq.,  LL.D.  The  ten 
volume  London  edition  in  one  elegant  royal  8vo,  volume,  with  a  fine  por- 
trait and  vignette.    $3  50. 

*.*  This  edition,  which  the  author  has  arranged  and  revised  with  the 
same  care  as  if  it  were  intended  for  posthumous  publication,  includes  many 
pieces  which  either  have  never  before  been  collected,  or  have  hitherto  re- 
mained unpublished. 

SCHLEGEL'S    PHILOSOPHY   OF 
HISTORY. 

The  Philosophy  of  History,  in  a  course  of  Lectures  delivered  at  Vienna,  by 
Frederick  von  Schlegel,  translated  from  the  German,  with  a  Memoir  of 
the  Author,  by  J.  B,  Robertson.  Handsomely  printed  on  fine  paper.  2 
vols.  I2mo,     ^2  50. 

THE  LIFEOF  ALEXANDER  HAMILTON. 

Edited  by  his  son,  John  C.  Hamilton,    2  vols,  8vo.    $5  00. 

"We  cordially  recommend  the  perusal  and  diUgent  study  of  these  vol- 
umes, exhibiting,  as  they  do,  much  valuable  matter  relative  to  the  Revo- 
lution, the  establishment  of  the  Federal  Constitution,  and  other  important 
events  in  the  annals  of  our  coxmlry ."—New- York  Review, 


D.  Appleton  ^  Co.^3  Catalogue  of  Valuable  WorJcs.        11 

"  THE   NEW  PURCHASE; 

Or,  Seven  and  a  Half  Years  in  the  Far  West.     By  Robert  Carlton,  Esq. 
Alter  et  Idem. 

Two  handsome  volumes  12mo.     ^1  50, 
*+*  This  work  is  characterized  by  much  original  humour  and  information. 

A  GALLOP  AMONG  AMERICAN   SCENERY. 

Sy  Augustus  E.  Silliman.  One  elegantly  printed  volume.  16mo.    75  cents. 

THE  AMERICAN  IN  EGYPL 

With  Rambles  thro-igh  Arabia-Petrsea  and  the  Holy  Land,  during  the 
years  1839-40. 

By  James  Ewing  Cook}'.  Illustrated  with  numerous  Steel  Engravings, 
also  Etchings  and  Designs  by  Johnston.  One  handsome  volume,  octavo,  of 
610  pages.     $2  00.     Cheap  edition,  paper  covers,  $1  00. 

"  No  otlier  volume  extant  can  ^\ve  the  reader  so  true  a  picture  of  what  he  woulrl  be  likely 
to  see  and  meet  in  Egypt.  >o  other  book  is  more  practical  and  plain  in  its  pifture  of  precisely 
what  the  traveller  himself  will  mnet.  Other  writers  have  orne  account  to  give  of  their  jour- 
ney on  paper,  and  another  to  relate  in  conversation.  Mr.  Cootey  has  but  one  story  fur  tha 
fireside  circle  and  the  printed  page." — Brother  Jonathan. 

THE  FLAG  SHIP ; 

OR  A  VOYAGE  ROUND  THE  WORLD, 

In  the  United  States  Frigate  Columbia,  attended  by  her  consort,  the  Sloop  of 
War  John  Adams,  and  bearing  the  broad  pennant  of  Commodore  George  C. 
Read.  By  Fitch  W.  Taylor,  Chaplain  to  the  Squadron.  2  vols.  I2mo. 
plates,     $2  50. 

TOUR  THROUGH   TURKEY  AND  PERSIA. 

Narrative  of  a  Tour  through  Armenia,  Kurdistan,  Persia  and  Mesopotamia, 
with  an  introduction  and  Occasional  Observations  upon  the  Condition  of 
Mohammedanism  and  Christianity  in  those  countries.  By  the  Rev.  Horatio 
Southgate,  Missionary  of  tlie  American  Episcopal  Church,  2  vols.  12mo. 
plates.     $2  00. 

SCOTLAND  AND  THE    SCOTCH; 

OR  THE  WESTERN  CIRCUIT. 
By  Catharine  Sinclair,  Author  of  Modern  Accomplishments,  Modern  Society, 
<fec.  &c.     1vol.  I2mo.     $0  75. 

SHETLAND  AND   THE  SHETLANDERS  ; 

OR  THE  NORTHERN  CIRCUIT. 
By  Catharine  Sinclair,  Author  of  Scotland  and  the  Scotch,  Holiday  House, 
&c,  &c.     1  vol.  12mo.  $0  87K 

HANDY    ANDY. — a  tale  of  irish  life. 

By  Samuel  Lover,  author  of  "  Rory  O'More,"  "  The  Gridiron,"  &c.  Illustrated 
with  twenty-two  characteristic  illustrations  from  designs  by  the  Author.  One 
handsome  volume,  cloth  gilt.  $1  25.  The  same  in  boards,  $1  00.  The 
same  with  only  two  plates,  in  paper  covers,  50  cents. 

WITH  TWENTY-THREE  IIXUSTRATIONS  BY  DICK  KITCAT,  ^ 

THE  FORTUNES  OF  HECTOR  O'HALLORAN, 

AND    HIS    MAN    MARK    ANTONY    o'tOOLE.  i 

By  W.  H.  MAXWELL,  Esq. 
One  elegant  volume,  cloth  gilt.   $1  25,  in  boards-  $1  00— in  paper  coirers  wftU 
^   only  two  plates,  50  cents. 


32        D.  Appleton  ^  Co*s  Catalogue  of  Valuahle  WorIi&, 

HISTORY  OF    NAPOLEON    BONAPARTE^ 

Translated  from  the  French  of  M.  Laurent  De  L'Ardeche,  Mem- 
ber of  the  Institute  of  France.  Illustrated  with  Five  Hundred 
Spirited  Plates,  after  designs  by  Horace  Vernet,  and  twenty- 
Original  Portraits  of  the  most  distinguished  Generals  of  France. 
2  vols.  8vo.  $4  00. 
All  the  leading  journals  have  spoken  in  the  most  unqualified 

praise  of  this  work.     The  following  is  from  the  Boston  Traveller  ; 

"  As  a  chaste,  condensed,  faithful,  and  eccurale  memoir  of  the  Great  Captain,  it  is  worthy  of 
much  attention.  The  author  has  mainly  drawn  tlie  necessary  facts  of  his  history  from  the  letters, 
speeches,  manit'cstoes,  bulletins,  and  other  state  papers  of  Napoleon,  and  has  given  a  considerable 
Dumber  of  tliese  in  his  text. 

"The  work  is  superior  to  the  long  verbose  productions  of  Scott  and  Bourrienne— not  in  style 
atone,  but  in  truth— being  written  to  please  neither  Charles  X.  nor  the  Enslish  axistocracy— but 
for  the  cause  of  freedom.     It  has  advantages  over  every  other  memoir  extant. '' 

THE   BO9K  OF  THE   NAVYj 

Comprising  a  General  History  of  the  American  Marine,  and  parti- 
cular  Accounts  of  all  the  most  Celebrated  Naval  Battles,  from  the 
Declaration  of  Independence  to  the  present  time,  compiled  from 
the  best  authorities.  By  John  Frost,  Professor  of  Belles  Lettres 
in  the  High  School  of  Philadelphia.  With  an  Appendix,  con- 
taining Naval  Songs,  Anecdotes,  &c.  EmbeUished  with  nume- 
rous original  Engravings  and  Portraits  of  distinguished  Naval 
Commanders.    Complete  in  one  handsome  volume,  8vo.    $100. 

"  This  eleg.-int  volume  is  dedicated  to  the  present  Secretary  of  the  Navy,  and  is  altogether  a  very 
faithiul  and  historical  record.  It  comprises  twenty-two  chapters,  detailing  the  prominent  events 
coiuiected  with  the  naval  history  of  the  American  federal  republic.  To  the  narrative  is  subjoined 
an  app,>ndix  of  seventy  pages,  including  thirty-two  very  interesting  characteristic  anecdotes,  nine- 
teen lyrical  poems,  and  a  niiiuUe  chronological  table  of  events  in  American  Naval  History.  It  is 
appropriately  adorned  witli  steel  cugraved'portraits,  numerous  vignettes,  and  full  page  representa- 
tions of  various  conflicts.  The  Book  of  the  Navy  deserves,  and  will  doubtless  have,  a  very  extend- 
ed circulation." — National  Intelligsncer. 

INCIDENTS  OF  A  XA^HALINQ   VOYAGE. 

To  which  is  added  Observations  on  the  Scenery,  Manners,  and 
Customs,  and  Missionary  Stations  of  the  Sandwich  and  Society 
Islands,  accompanied  by  numerous  plates.  By  Francis  AUyn 
Olmsted.     One  handsome  volume,  12mo.     $1  50. 

PICTORIAL   VICAR    OF   NA^AKEFIELD. 

The  Vicar  of  Wakefield.  By  Oliver  Goldsmith.  Elegantly  illus- 
trated with  nearly  200  Engravings,  making  a  beautiful  volume, 
octavo,  of  about  350  pages.     $1   25. 

"We  love  to  turn  back  over  these  rich  old  classics  of  our  own  language,  and  rejuvinnte  ourselves 
by  tlie  neyer-lailing  associations  which  a  re-perusal  always  oalh  up.  Let  any  one  who  has  not 
read  diis  immortal  tale  for  filteen  or  twenty  years,  try  the  experinitiit,  and  we  will  warrant,  that  he 
rises  up  from  the  task— the  pleasure  we  sliould  have  said— a  happier  and  a  better  man."  —Sav.  Rep. 

PICTORIAL    ROBINSON    CRUSOE. 

The  Life  and  Adventures  of  Robinson  Crusoe.  By  Daniel  De 
Foe.  With  a  Memoir  of  the  Author,  and  an  Essay  on  hia 
Writings,  illustrated  with  nearly  500  spirited  Engravings,  by 
the  celebrated  French  artist,  Grandvilie,  forming  one  elegant 
volume,  octavo,  of  500  pages.     $1    75. 

"Wasthereeveranything  written  by  mere  man  that  the  reader  wlshod  longer,  except  Koblason 
Crusoe,  Don  Q,Mixotle,  and  the  Pilgrim's  l^rogresa?"— /Jr.  Johnson. 

"  Ko'.v  happy  that  this,  the  most  moral  of  romances,  is  not  only  Ibe  mosl  chaiming  of  booki  but. 
Uiemominsuuclive."— 4.  Cha,lmeTl% 


D.  Appleton  ^-  Co.'s  Catalogue  of  Valuable  WorTcs.        13 

A  DICTIONARY  OF  ARTS,   M  AN  U  FACTU  R  ES  AN  D  MINES, 

Containing  a  clear  exposition  of  tlieir  Principles  and  Practice.  By  Andrew 
Ure,  M.D.,  F.R.S.,  &c.  &C.  Illustrated  ivilh  One  Thousand  Two  Hundred 
and  Forty-one  Engravings  on  wood.  Containing  upwards  of  130U  closely 
printed  pages,  forming  one  very  thick  volume  8vo.,  strongly  bound  in 
sheep.    $5  00.    ITT"  The  same  woik  bound  in  two  volumes.     $5  50. 

In  every  point  of  view  a  work  like  the  prssent  can  but  be  re»arileil  as  a  benefit  done  to  theo- 
retical and  practical  science,  to  commerce  anil  niiiujtry,  and  an  importint  addition  to  a  spe- 
cies of  literature  the  exclusive  production  of  the  present  century,  and  the  present  state  of 
peace  and  civdizatinn.  Criticisms  in  favour  of  its  intrinsic  value  to  all  classes  of  the  commu- 
nity might  he  proiiiced,  if  space  would  permit,  from  upwards  of  three  hundred  of  the  leading 
journals  in  Europe  and  this  country. 

"  This  useful  and  most  excellent  work,  which  has  been  issuing  in  Monthly  Numbers,  for 
some  time  past,  is  now  completed.  It  is  a  publication  of  most  decided  and  permanent  value, 
one  of  which  no  library  should  be  destitute.  It  is  filled  with  information  upon  precisely  those 
subjects  with  wlilcli  erery  one  should  be  familiar,  upon  the  practical  operations  of  the  arts, 
the  scientific  princip^s  and  processes  of  mechanics,  and  the  history  of  all  improvements  in 
every  departmeut  of  Science  and  Industry.  The  auilior  is  a  man  of  eminence  and  ability,  and 
the  work  enjoys  the  highest  reputation  in  England,  where  it  was  first  published.  We  trust 
it  will  be  welcomed  by  the  intelligent  of  every  class  of  our  citizens.  It  is  neatly  printed,  and 
illustrated  with  upwards  of  twelve  hundred  en^avings." — N.  V.  Tribune. 

HYDRAULICS   AND    MECHANICS. 

A  Descriptive  and  Historical  Account  of  Hydraulic  and  other  Machines  for 
Raising  Water,  including  the  Steam  and  Fire  Engines,  ancient  and  mod- 
ern ;  with  Observations  on  various  subjects  connected  with  the  Mechanic 
Arts  ;  including  the  Progressive  Development  of  the  Steam-Engine, 
Descriptions  of  every  variety  of  Bellows,  Piston,  and  Rotary  Pumps, 
Fire  Engines,  Water  Rams,  Pressure  Engines,  Air  Machines,  Eolipile.s, 
&c.  Remarks  on  Ancient  Wells,  Air  Beds,  Cog  Wheels,  Blowpipes, 
Bellows  of  various  People,  Magic  Goblets,  Steam  Idols,  and  other  Ma- 
chinery of  Ancient  Temples.  To  which  are  added  Experiments  on  Blow- 
ing and  Spouting  Tubes,  and  other  original  Devices,  IN'ature's  modes  and 
Machinery  for  Raising  Water.  Historical  notices  respecting  Siphons, 
Fountains,  Water  Organs,  Clopsydraj,  Pipes,  Valves,  Cocks,  &c.  In  five 
books.  Illustrated  by  nearly  Three  Hundred  Engravings.  By  Tiiomas 
E-wbank.    One  handsomely  printed  volume  of  six  hundred  pages.  $3  50. 

HODGE  ON  THE  STEAM-ENGINE. 

The  Steam-Engine,  its  Origin  and  Gradual  Improvement,  from  the  lime  of 
Hero  to  the  present  day,  as  a^lapted  to  Manufactures,  Locomotion  and 
Navigation.  Illustrated  with  Forty-eight  Plates  in  full  detail,  numerous 
Wood  Cuts,  &c.  By  Paul  R.  Hodge,  C.E.  1  vol.  foho  of  plates,  and 
letter-press  in  8vo,    $10  00. 

LAFEVER'S   MODERN    ARCHITECTURE. 

Beauties  of  Modern  Architecture:  consisting  of  Forty-eight  Plates  of  Ori- 
ginal Designs,  with  Plans,  Elevations  and  Sections,  also  a  Dictionary 
of  Technical  Terms  ;  the  whole  forming  a  complete  Manual  for  the  Prac 
tical  Builder.     By  M.  Lafever,  Architect.     1  vol.  large  8vo.  half  bound. 
$6  00. 

LAFEVER'S  STAIR-CASE   AND    HAND-RAIL 
CONSTRUCTION. 

The  Modern  Practice  of  Stair-case  and  Hand-rail  Construction,  practically 
explained,  in  a  series  of  Designs.  By  M.  Lafever,  Architect.  With 
Plans  and  Elevations  for  Ornamental  Villas.  Fifteen  Plates.  1  vol. 
large  Bvo.    $3  00, 

The  works  of  Lafever  are  pronounced  by  practical  men  to  be  the  most  useful  ever  pub- 
lished. 

THE   PRINCIPLES  OF  DIAGNOSIS. 

By  Marshall  Hall,  M.D.  F.R.S.,  &c.    Second  Edition,  with  many  improve- 
ments.   By  Dr.  John  A.  Sweet.     1  vol.  8vo.    $2  00. 


14      7).  Appleton  ^  Cu.^s  Catalogue  of  Valuable  Works, 

MINIATURE    CLASSICAL    LIBRARY. 

This  unique  Library  will  comprise  the  best  works  of  the  best 
authors  in  prose  and  poetry  ;  publislied  in  an  eleg^ant  form, 
with  a  beautiful  frontispiece,  tastefully  ornamented.  The 
following  are  now  ready  : 

GOLDSMITH.— Essays  on  Various  Subjects.  By  Oliver  Gold- 
smith.    37z  cents. 

GOLDSMITH.— The  Vicaii  of  Wakefield.  By  Oliver  Goldsmith. 
37i-  cents. 

JOHNSON.— The  History  of  Rasselas,  Prince  of  Abyssinia. 
A  Tale.    By  Samuel  Johnson,  LL.D.    37^  cents. 

COTTI  N,— Elizabeth,  or,  the  Exiles  of  Siberia.  By  Madame 
Cottin.     The  extensive  popularity  of  this  little  Tale  is  well  known.  3U  cts. 

TOKEN  OF  REMEMBRANCE. 
TOKEN  OF  AFFECTION. 
TOKEN  OF  FRIENDSHIP, 
TOKEN  OF  THE  HEART. 

Each  volume  consists   of  appropriate  Poetical  extracts  from  the  principal 
writers  of  the  day.    31i  each. 

PURE  GOLD  PROM  THE  RIVERS  OF  WISDOM.  A  collection 
of  short  extracts  on  religions  subjects  from  the  older  writers,  Bishop  Hall, 
Sherlock,  Bdrrow,  Palev,  Jeremy  Taylor,  &c.    3U  c'nts. 

ST.  PI  £R R  E.— Paul  and  Virginia.  From  the  French  of  J.  B.  H 
De  St.  Pierre.    3U cents. 

H.   MO R  E'S  Private  Devotions.    Complete.    SU  cents. 

THE   SEASONS— By  James  Thomson.     371  cents. 

GEMS    FROM    AMERICAN     POETS.— 37^^  cents. 

CLARKE'S    Scripture  Promises.    Complete.    37t  cents. 
■.-*ji^*  These  volumes  will  be  followed  by  others  of  attested  merit. 

■ifCOl  ©^lD@'[Klli'gB©  ©i?  [1K1©.[L^KI[E)  3  Their  Position  in 
Society,  Character,  and  Responsibilities.  By  Mrs.  Ellis,  author  of  "  The 
Women  of  England."   Complete  in  one  handsome  volume,  12mo.  50  cts 

'lfKl[E  WO^^g©  ©[?  lKI@-LL/aK]©  a  Their  relative  Duties,  Do 
jnestic  Influences  and  Social  Obligations.  By  Mrs.  Ellis,  author  ol 
"  The  Women  of  England,"  "  Thtj  Daughters  of  England."  In  one 
handsome  volume,  12mo.  50  cents. 

'iTKlg  W©KiO[I?3  ©P  g^^^-IL/^KI^g  Their  Social  Duties  and 
Domestic  Habits.   By  Mrs.  Ellis.    One  handsome  volume,  12mo.  50  cts. 

C-]©[>Sa[I  [I[E)l!iJ©i^'ira©K]a  By  Isaac  Taylor,  author  of  "Natural 
History  of  Enthusiasm,"  <fec.&c.     Second  edition.   1  vol.  12mo.    $1  00. 

"  In  this  volume  the  general  principles  of  Education,  as  applicable  to  private  families  and 
to  small  Bcliools,  are  staled  and  explained  ;  such  mflliods  of  ueatnient,  especially,  being  sug- 
gested as  are  beet  suited  to  the  circuinitances  of  a  country  residence;  at  the  same  time,  hints 
are  otVeied  of  a  kind  to  be  available  under  any  circumstances  for  carrymg  on  the  culture  of 
those  of  the  intellectual  faculties  that  are  the  earliest  developed,  and  on  the  due  expansion  ol 
which  the  force  and  efficiency  of  the  mature  mind  depend." 

"  A  very  enlightened,  just,  and  Christian  view  of  a  most  important  subject." — American 
Biblical  Repository . 

By  Francis  VVayland,  D.D.    Second  edition,  1  vol.  18mo. 

P[K]V©a©^[L    T[Xl[l©[f3V  ©[?   AKIQ-TPOOIIS  [LQl^g^     By 

Isaac  Taylor,  author  of  Natural  History  ot  Enthusiasm."   Third  edition. 
1  vol.  12nio.  87i  cents. 

*'  One  of  the  most  learned  and  extraordinary  works  of  modern  times." 


D.Appleton  tf  Co.'s  Catalogue  of  Valuable  Works.       15 


A  LIBRARY  FOR  IVIY  YOUNG  CQUNTRYIVIEN. 

This  Library  is  confided  to  tiie  editorial  care  of  one  of  the  most  successful 
writers  of  tlie  day,  and  comiuends  itself  as  presenting  to  llie  readers  of  this 
country  a  collection  ot  books,  chiefly  cuufined  to  American  subjects  of  his- 
torical interest. 

The  following  volumes  are  now  ready,  price  374  cents  each 
THE  LIFE  AND  ADVEN  I'URES  OF  IIKNRY  HUDSON.     By  tiie  author 

of  "  Uncle  Philip,"  "  Vir£rinia,"  &c. 
ADVENTURES  OF  CAPTAIN  JOHN  SMiTH  ;  Founder  of  Yir-ima      Bv 

Ihe  author  of  '*  Henry  Hudson,"  &c.  ° 

DAWNING  S  OP  GENIUS.     By  Anne  Pratt,  author  of  "  Flowers  and  their 

Associations,"  &c. 
LIFE  AND  ADVENTURES  OF  HERMAN  CORTES.     By  the  author  of 

the  "Adventures  of  Captain  John  Smith,"  &c. 
THE  ADVENTURES  OF  DANIEL  BOONE,  the  Kentucky  Rifleman     By 

the  author  of  "  Henry  Hudson,"  &c. 

DU"  Several  other  volumes  are  in  immediate  ])reparation. 

EVENINGS  WITH  THE  CHRONICLERS ; 

Or  Uncle  Rupert's  Tales  of  Chivalry.     By  R.  M.  Evaiis.     Willi   many  Illus- 
trations.    1  vol.  lOino.,  elegantly  bound.     $0  75. 

l^'^:^'^::^:^^^:^  ^ry^l^:^"^,::;:'''  "^  werey<n.nser,  and  it  is  scarcely 

THE  iilSTORi'  OF  JOAN  OF  ARC. 

By  R.  M.  Evans,  author  of  "  Evenings  with  the  Chroniclers,"  with  twcnlr- 
four  elegant  Illustrations.     1  vol.  16mo.     Extra  gilt.     $0  75.  " 

SPRING,  SUMMER,  AUTUMN.  AND  AVINTER. 

The  Juvenile  Naturalist ;  or  Walks  in  the  Country.  By  the  Rev.  B  H  Draper 
A  beautiful  volume,  with  nearly  tilty  plates.  2  vols,  square,  handsomely 
bound.     $0  50  each.  •' 

THE  YOUNG  ISLANDERS. 

A  Tale  of  the  Last  Century.  By  Jeffreys  Taylor.  1vol.  16mo.,  beautifully 
Illustrated.  75  cents.  This  fascinating  and  elegantly  illustrated  volume 
lor  the  young,  is  pronounced  to  be  equal,  if  not  superior  to  De  Foe's  immor- 
tal work,  "  Robinson  Crusoe." 

KEIGHTLEV'S  MYTHOLOGY  FOR  SCHOOLS. 

The  Mythology  of  Ancient  Greece  and  Italy,  designed  for  the  use  of  Schools 
By  Thomas  Keightley.  Numerous  wood-cut  Illustrations.  1  vol.  I8mo. 
half  bound.     44  cents. 

HAZEN'S  SYMBOLICAL  SPELLING  BOOK. 

'^.l^y^^ohcK^  Spellnig-Baok,  in  two  parts.  By  Edw.  Hazen.  Containin? 
2bfS  engravings.  JSt  «ffents.  This  work  is  used  in  upwards  of  1000  dilTereat 
Schools,  and  pronounced  to  be  one  of  the  best  works  published. 

THE  BOY'S  MANUAL. 

Comprising  a  Summary  View  of  the  Studies,  Accomplishments,  and  Principles 
of  Conduct,  best  suited  for  promoting  Respectabihty  and  Success  m  Life, 
liiegantly  engraved  frontispiece.     1  vol.  18mo.     50  cents. 

THE  GIRL:S  MANUAL. 

Comprising  a  Summary  View  of  Female  Studies,  Accomplishments,  and  Prin- 
ciples of  Conduct.     Beautiful  frontispiece.    1  vol.  ISmo.     50  cents. 

THE  OLD  OAK  TREE. 

A  most  interesting  little  volume  of  practical  instruction  for  youth  ;  illustrated 
witn  nearly  fifty  platos.    2?  j  cents. 


16 
APPLETON'S 

TALES  FOR  THE  PEOPLE 

AND    THErR    CHILDREN. 


The  greatest  care  has  been  taken  in  selectinnr  the  works  of  which 
^  .       .  .  .  •  • 

the  collection  is  composed,  so  that  nothing  either  mediocre   in 

talent,  or  immoral  in  tendency,  is  admitted.  Each  volume  is 
printed  on  the  finest  paper,  is  illustrated  with  an  elegant 
frontispiece,  and  is  bound  in  a  superior  manner,  tastefully  orna- 
mented. 

The  following  are  comprised  in  the  series,  uniform  in  size  and  style  : — 

THE  POPLAR  GROVE  ;  or,  Little  Harry  and  his  Uncle  Benjamin, 

By  Mrs.  Coplev.     37^  cents. 
EARLY  FRIENDSHIPS.     By  Mrs.  Copley.     37i  cents. 
THE  CROFTON  BOYS.     By  Harriet  Martineau.    37i  cents. 
THE  PEASANT  AND  THE  PRINOE.     By  Harriet  Martineau.  371  cts. 
NORWAY  AND  THE  NORWEGIANS ;  or,  Feats  on  the  Fiord.     By 

Harriet  Martineau.       374  cents. 
MASTERMAN  READY  ;  or,  the  Wreck  of  the  Pacific.      Written  for 

Young  People.  By  (^^aptain  Mairvatt.  Three  volumes  ;  eacii  37i  cents. 
THE   LOOKING-GLASS  FOR   THE  MIND  ;    or,  Intellectual  Mirror. 

An  elesant  collection  of  Delightful  Stories  and  Tales  :  many  plates  50  cts. 
HOPE  ON,  HOPE  EVER ;  or  the  Boyhood  of  Felix  Law.      By  Mary 

Howitt.    37s^  cents 
STRIVE  AND  THRIVE  ;  a  Tale.    By  Marv  Howitt.     37i  cents. 
SOWING  AND  REAPING;    or,    What  will  Come   of   It?    By   Mary 

Howitt.     37i  cents. ' 
WHO  SHALL  BE  GREATEST?    a  Tale.     By  Mary  Howitt.     37J  cts. 
WHICH  IS  THE  WISER  ?  or,  People  Abroad.  Bv  Marv  Howitt.  37i  cts. 
LITTLE  COIN  MUCH  CARE  ;  or,  How  Poor  People  Live.    By  Mary 

Howitt.     37.^  cents. 
WORK  AND  WAGES;  or,  Life  in  Service.     By  Mary  Howitt.    37i  cts 
ALICE  FRANKLIN     By  Mary  Howitt. 
WO  SENSE  LIKE  COMMON  SENSE,     By  Mary  Howitt. 
THE  DANGERS  OF  DINING  OUT  ;  or,  Hints  to  those  who  would 

make  Home  Happy.     To  which  is  added  the  Confessions  of  a  Maniac. 

By  Mi;s  Ellis.     .37i  cents. 
SOMERVILLB  HALL  ;  or,  Hints  to  those  who  would  make  Home 

Happy.  To  wliich  is  added  the  Rising  Tide.  By  Mrs.  Ellis.  37*  cents. 
FIRST  IMPRESSIONS  ;  or,  Hints  to  those  who  would  make  Home 

Happy.     By  Mrs.  I'dli.s.     371  rents. 
MINISTER'S  FAMILY ;  or,  Hints  to  those  wlio  would  make  Hcnne 

Happy.     By  Mrs.  Ellis.    371  cents. 
THE  TWIN  SISTERS;  a  Tale.    By  Mrs.  Sandham.     371  cents. 
TIRED  OF  HOUSE-KEEPING;    a  Tale.     By  T   S.  Arthur.      .371  cents. 

"  Messrs.  Appleton  &  Co.  deserve  the  higliest  praise  for  the  excellent 
manner  in  whicli  tlieyiiave  'got  up' their  juvenile  library,  and  we  sincere- 
ly hope  that  its  success  will  be  so  great  as  to  induce  them  to  make  con- 
tinual contributions  to  its  treasures.  The  collection  is  one  which  should 
be  owned  by  every  parent  who  wislies  that  the  moral  and  intellectual  im- 
provement of  his  children  should  keep  pace  wiih  their  growth  in  years,  and 
tlie  ueselopniont  of  their  physic-.il  powers." — lioxlon  Times. 


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Princeton  Theological  Semmary-Speer  Library 


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